Bradford dealing with highest cases of infectious diseases in West Yorkshire

Bradford is dealing with the highest cases of infectious diseases in West Yorkshire, figures show.

Whooping cough, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, and food poisoning are among the diseases recently diagnosed across the district.

The UK Health Security Agency regularly records data on infectious diseases notified by healthcare providers in the past six weeks.

The list is based on figures provided by registered medical practitioners across England and Wales up to May 12.

Whooping cough

In West Yorkshire, a total of 11 out of 39 cases of whooping cough -  a bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes - were recorded in Bradford.

With vaccinations available for high risk patients like babies and children, whooping cough can spread very easily and sometimes lead to serious problems.

Due to the nature of whooping cough, the NHS website advises people to phone their GP before going into their surgery. The patient may be offered an appointment over the phone.

Scarlet fever and tuberculosis (TB)

There were four cases of scarlet fever registered in Bradford as well as three cases of tuberculosis, also known as TB.

Scarlet fever, a contagious infection that mostly affects young children, is easily treated with antibiotics.

The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands (a large lump on the side of your neck).

Meanwhile TB is caused by bacteria that is spread through the air when people with lung TB cough, sneeze or spit.

It most often affects the lungs.

Common symptoms of TB include a cough that lasts more than three weeks – you may cough up mucus (phlegm) or mucus with blood in it, fatigue and a high temperature or night sweats.

Other symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss and feeling generally unwell.

The data also reported one case of measles and two cases of food poisoning.

What to do if you think you have an infectious disease

Sarah Muckle, director of public health at Bradford Council, said: “The number of cases of infectious diseases across West Yorkshire fluctuates week-on-week but it is concerning that we are seeing cases of illnesses such as measles, rubella and whooping cough which are preventable through immunisations such as the MMR and six-in-one.

“We are actively working with partners in the NHS to engage with our communities and promote vaccinations against preventable diseases. For instance a new infant health campaign is launching across the district next week.

“Should anyone develop symptoms, they should speak to their GP or call 111 if out of hours. They should only go straight to A&E if severely ill.”