In response to the outbreaks of whooping cough in various parts of the country, health authorities have issued a series of recommendations to prevent and cut the chain of contagion. Among the measures suggested by the Mexican Institute of Social Security are frequent handwashing with soap and water, as well as avoiding close contact with sick people. It is also advised not to share food, toothbrushes, cigarettes or other personal items, and to wear face masks, as well as covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
In particular, mothers and fathers are advised to keep newborns away from people with cough or cold symptoms, and to check the National Health Card of minors to ensure they have complete vaccination schedules. If any doses are missing, it is recommended to go to the corresponding Family Medicine Unit to receive the pending vaccines.
Among the most common symptoms of whooping cough are runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and mild cough. In case of these discomforts, it is recommended to isolate oneself and seek medical attention. The disease can evolve into a severe cough after one or two weeks, especially in babies, which may be accompanied by fever and difficulty breathing; therefore, it is crucial to go to emergencies immediately if these symptoms appear.
The Mexican Institute of Social Security calls on the population to avoid self-medication in the face of any possible symptoms of the disease, as this could generate resistance to medications and worsen health instead of improving it.
