01/20/2025
‼️ Pertussis, or whooping cough, cases are sharply rising in the U.S., with reports 6x higher at the end of 2024 vs. 2023.
While many cases are mild, I’ve also seen very serious cases of pertussis requiring hospitalization—especially in infants. This is why early recognition, prevention, and care are so important.
As a family doc fully trained in pediatrics, I thought you might like more about this from me.
Who Is Affected?
Infants under 1 year old are at the highest risk for severe disease, complications, and hospitalization due to their developing immune systems.
Vaccinated children, babies, and adults can still contract pertussis because immunity from the vaccine fades over time.
Unvaccinated individuals remain at risk of more severe illness.
Older children and adults with mild, lingering coughs can unknowingly spread pertussis, putting infants and others at risk.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Early signs: Runny nose, mild fever, and persistent cough.
Classic symptom: Coughing fits that may include a “whooping” sound or lead to difficulty breathing, especially in young children.
In infants: Gagging, vomiting, or pauses in breathing (apnea).
What Can You Do?
🤒 Recognize symptoms early and take action—especially in infants.
🧑⚕️ Seek medical care if symptoms persist or worsen.
🌿 Learn natural symptom relief strategies and tips to keep your child comfortable .
Resources:
🌿 Free Herbal Medicines for Kids at the link below - includes my natural children's cough syrup, earache, and other remedies.
🌿My children's course Healthy All Year course where I have an extensive discussion of pertussis, natural approaches, remedies, warning signs, and when to see the doctor. See my website under courses.
🌿My classic books: Naturally Healthy Babies and Children and Vaccinations: A Thoughtful Parent's Guide available through Amazon, etc.
Have questions? Drop them below or send a DM. This space isn’t for vaccine debates(on either side)—this is about supporting this community with the kindness and evidence-based care. Haters will be ignored.
🌿 Dr. Aviva
https://avivaromm.com/herbal-medicines-for-kids-ebook/