What is whooping cough ?

Whooping cough is also known as  pertussis. This bacterial infection inflame the lungs and airways and result in a violent uncontrollable cough which makes it difficult to breathe. A whooping sound is heard when the person breathes in.  Young children and infants are mostly susceptible even though it can affect any age.

How do you get whooping cough ?

It is caused by the bacterium  Bordetella pertussis . You may get it through   tiny droplets from an infected person’s nose or mouth when they sneeze, cough or talks. Coming into contact with an infected person or infected object and then touching your nose or mouth may cause infection.

What symptoms does whooping cough  present ?

Whooping cough often presents cold or flu-like symptoms such as

 
• runny nose
• sneezing
• low-grade fever
• mild cough
• nasal congestion
•  watery eye

 
As the disease progresses , the cold symptoms get better and cough symptoms gets worse. Thick mucus accumulates in the airways causing this uncontrollable cough which may cause

 
• whooping sound when breathing
• extreme fatigue
• vomiting
• red or purple face

Who is at risk ?

You are at high risk for whooping cough if you fall into this category :

 
• children under 6 months
• teenagers and adults

How dangerous is whooping cough to my baby ?

Pertussis can present complications such as

 
• pneumonia
• brain damage
• seizures
• death

What should I do if I suspect that my baby has whooping cough ?

If you think your baby ahs whooping cough call the doctor right away. The doctor will then perform the following diagnostic test to confirm the disease

 
• blood test to check for elevated white blood cells
• nose and throat swab to check for the whooping cough bacteria
• check  x-ray to check for complications such as pneumonia

What are the treatment options for  whooping cough?

Whooping cough can be effectively treated in the beginning with antibiotics such as erythromycin. The cough is treated with over the counter cough syrup. Note that cough syrup is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

How can I protect my child from whooping cough ?

The best way to protect your child from whooping cough is the pertussis vaccine. The vaccine is given in early childhood and wears away by age 11. It is therefore crucial for   teenagers  over 11 years, adults over 65 years and pregnant women to get a booster shot.
 
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