An Australian mother recently shared a distressing video capturing her four-month-old son experiencing a severe coughing episode due to whooping cough (pertussis). Her intention was to illustrate the harsh reality of caring for a newborn afflicted by this illness, hoping that the visual impact would encourage parents to prioritize vaccinations for themselves and their children.
Rebecca Thompson recorded the footage 23 days after her son’s cough began. Although he had received his initial dose of the whooping cough vaccine, this single shot does not provide complete protection against the disease. This underscores the critical nature of herd immunity, which shields children while they await their full vaccination schedule. Thompson’s video aims to convey the fear and helplessness of tending to a baby in such a vulnerable state.
Thompson’s Message on Vaccination
In her message, Thompson stated, “For those of you uncertain about whether to vaccinate yourselves and your children, perhaps this video will sway your decision. This is a relatively mild coughing episode for a four-month-old with pertussis, occurring well into the illness. It can persist for up to 100 days, and a simple cold I contracted while in the hospital with him has caused a relapse.”
She further elaborated, “When I say this is mild, I mean it’s hardly a ‘fit’ at all compared to the terrifying moments when he struggled to breathe, turning blue as he coughed incessantly.” Many arguments against vaccinations are made in isolation, often by those who have never faced the dire consequences of vaccine-preventable diseases. Parents who choose not to vaccinate their children are benefiting from the immunity created by those who do, while simultaneously undermining it.
The Struggle of a Newborn
“Can you imagine witnessing that struggle in a tiny newborn?” Thompson reflected, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Doctors noted that her son’s age, size, and first vaccination were advantageous in his fight against the illness, as there is no definitive treatment for whooping cough—only supportive care to ensure he breathes adequately.
“I don’t care to debate the efficacy of vaccinations or herd immunity. At least I can say I took action to prevent this. Sitting back and claiming that vaccines don’t work while doing nothing is unacceptable to me as a mother. Inaction goes against every instinct I have,” Thompson expressed, affirming her commitment to vaccinating her child.
A Call to Action
This story serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vaccinations in protecting not only individual children but also the wider community. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, you can visit excellent resources like the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
In summary, Rebecca Thompson’s poignant video highlights the serious effects of whooping cough in infants and the critical need for vaccinations. It serves as a powerful call to action for parents to protect their children and contribute to community immunity.