Sharp increase in whooping cough cases sparks alert in Denmark
Denmark is witnessing a sharp surge in whooping cough cases. This severe infectious disease often affects children and adolescents. German media outlets are sounding the alarm about the epidemic and discouraging citizens from traveling to the neighboring country.
2:24 PM EST, November 27, 2023
The Danes have been battling the coronavirus for a significant period. Now, a new epidemic, whooping cough, has emerged. The first cases were reported in late spring, and the count continues to escalate across Denmark, according to the local public health institute, the Statens Serum Institut (SSI).
The current whooping cough epidemic in Denmark
Prior outbreaks of whooping cough in Denmark occurred in 2019-2020 and 2016-17. "Currently, we are witnessing a substantial surge in whooping cough frequency, and there's no indication that the epidemic will abate anytime soon," reports the Danish institute, noting that 1131 cases were recorded in October alone. Just between November 13th and 19th, 349 new cases were registered. "We are closely monitoring the situation," assures the SSI in a statement.
Danish media express concern over "endangered children", overwhelmed clinics, peak illness rates, and vaccinations for pregnant women. Advocating preventative measures, they advise: "Maintain hand hygiene, wear a mask, and if you have a fever and a cough, stay at home to avoid infecting others".
Germany advises caution for travelers to Denmark
The German media, specifically the Bavarian newspaper "Münchner Merkur", highlight the high infection rates on the Baltic Sea island Fionia, a popular tourist destination. The paper reminds travellers that they can cancel a trip at any time and, in some instances, claim compensation from the trip organizer. "The earlier you cancel the trip, the better," it suggests.
Although the German Foreign Office has not officially warned its citizens against traveling to Denmark, the newspaper urges everyone to get vaccinated if travel is still in their plans.
Understanding whooping cough
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a severe infectious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Although it affects all age groups, it is most common in children and adolescents. The disease is notably hazardous for the very young, leading to potentially dangerous complications and even death. Early symptoms mimic those of other upper respiratory tract infections. However, later stages of the disease are marked by prolonged coughing fits that exhaust the body, cause breathing difficulties, and can result in fainting or vomiting.
