Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterised by severe coughing fits that often end with a high-pitched "whoop" sound, particularly in children. The condition can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is the primary method of prevention.
It features severe coughing fits ending in a high-pitched "whoop." The illness has three stages:
Catarrhal (1-2 weeks): mild cold-like symptoms.
Paroxysmal (2-6 weeks): intense coughing, possible vomiting, cyanosis, exhaustion; "whoop" common in children.
Convalescent (2-3 weeks): gradual recovery, but cough may persist for months.
Infants risk complications like pneumonia, apnea, weight loss, neurological damage, or death. Diagnosis is via culture, PCR, or serology. Prevention is by vaccination; treatment includes supportive care and antibiotics.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterised by severe coughing fits that often end with a high-pitched "whoop" sound, particularly in children. The condition can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and those with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is the primary method of prevention.
It features severe coughing fits ending in a high-pitched "whoop." The illness has three stages:
Catarrhal (1-2 weeks): mild cold-like symptoms.
Paroxysmal (2-6 weeks): intense coughing, possible vomiting, cyanosis, exhaustion; "whoop" common in children.
Convalescent (2-3 weeks): gradual recovery, but cough may persist for months.
Infants risk complications like pneumonia, apnea, weight loss, neurological damage, or death. Diagnosis is via culture, PCR, or serology. Prevention is by vaccination; treatment includes supportive care and antibiotics.