A recent study claims that the hexavalent vaccine protects against diphtheria, whooping cough, Haemophilus influenzae type B, tetanus, poliomyelitis, and hepatitis B. The National Polytechnic Institute strongly recommended vaccination for adults who have not completed the vaccination schedule. Given the increase in cases of diseases, health authorities urge for prevention and early detection to reduce the spread of viruses and avoid complications.
Dr. Silvia Giono Cerezo, a microbiologist at IPN, explained that whooping cough goes through three stages: catarrhal, paroxysmal, and convalescent, lasting approximately three months. In the case of children under one year old, symptoms may be subtle, highlighting the importance of early detection. Authorities and specialists are calling on the population to take extra precautions, especially for children under six months old, as they are more susceptible to serious complications.
In the initial stage, whooping cough manifests as a severe cold with rhinorrhea and mild cough, but as it progresses to the paroxysmal phase, episodes of nighttime coughing intensify, which can lead to seizures and changes in the child's skin, as well as wheezing sounds while breathing. The General Directorate of Epidemiology confirmed an increase in cases of whooping cough in Mexico, with 288 infections recorded as of March 10, warning about the possible complication of secondary pneumonia.
Dr. Giono Cerezo highlighted that at any sign of respiratory infection, it is essential to seek a health professional immediately for appropriate treatment with antibiotics and to avoid self-medication. In the final stage of the disease, symptoms begin to decrease progressively, but cough may persist for up to two months and worsen with physical exertion or new infections.
Vaccination is established as the main preventive measure, recommending the administration of four doses of the hexavalent vaccine at two, four, six, and 18 months of age, with a booster at four years. The importance of vaccination in the prevention of diseases such as whooping cough is crucial to protect the health of the population.
