Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Description
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It affects the respiratory system, leading to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or months. It is particularly dangerous for infants and young children. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can be transmitted by direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include: Mild cold-like symptoms (runny nose, mild fever, occasional cough) in the early stage, Severe, uncontrollable coughing fits, often ending in a "whooping" sound during inhalation, Vomiting and exhaustion after coughing episodes, and Complications include pneumonia, seizures, and brain damage in infants. Doctors diagnose whooping cough using nasal or throat swabs and blood tests. Treatment includes antibiotics (azithromycin, erythromycin) to reduce transmission, along with supportive care (hydration, oxygen therapy for severe cases). The DTaP and Tdap vaccines prevent infection.