Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits followed by a "whooping" sound when inhaling. It can be dangerous, especially for infants and older adults, and spreads easily through respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the best form of prevention, but even vaccinated individuals can occasionally contract a milder form of the disease.

Severe coughing fits

“Whooping” sound after coughing

Vomiting after coughing

Exhaustion

Antibiotics: Early treatment with macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin) can reduce severity and transmission

Supportive care: Hydration, rest, and oxygen if needed

Vaccination: DTaP (children) and Tdap (adolescents/adults) are preventive

Caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria

Spread through respiratory droplets from coughing/sneezing

Healthcare Providers

Treatments

Antibiotics: Early treatment with macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin) can reduce severity and transmission

Supportive care: Hydration, rest, and oxygen if needed

Vaccination: DTaP (children) and Tdap (adolescents/adults) are preventive

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Whooping Cough

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

Causes

Treatments

Specialties That Treat This Condition

Related Conditions

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