Whooping Cough Learning Center

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Welcome

Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable, violent coughing. The coughing can make it hard to breathe. A deep "whooping" sound is often heard when the patient tries to take a breath.

Basic Info

Symptoms
Runny nose; Slight fever (102F or lower; Diarrhea; Choking spells in infants.
Causes
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is an upper respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella parape...
Tests
The initial diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms. However, when the symptoms are not obvious, pertussis may be di...
Treatments
If started early enough, antibiotics such as erythromycin and amoxicillin can make the symptoms go away more quickly. U...
Drugs
  • azithromycin
  • erythromycin
  • sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
Alternative Therapies
  • Acupuncture
  • Aromatherapy
  • Hydrotherapy
Risk Factors
  • Contact With Infected Person
Complications
Pneumonia; Convulsions; Seizure disorder (permanent; Nose bleeds; Ear infections; Brain damage from lack of oxygen; Ble...
Prevention
A TDaP vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) or pertussis-only vaccine helps protect children against this disease. ...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if you or your child develops symptoms of pertussis. Call 911 or get to an emergency roo...

Basic Info

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