🤧 Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

🌟 What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, medically known as Pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The disease is named after the “whooping” sound made when a person inhales deeply after a severe coughing fit.

🔎 Causes & Risk Factors

Bacteria: Bordetella pertussis infects the throat and lungs.
Transmission: Spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.
Risk factors:
- Infants and young children (most vulnerable).
- People who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.
- Adults with weakened immunity.

🩺 Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop 7–10 days after infection:

Early Stage (Catarrhal Stage):

Mild cough and runny nose 🤧
Sneezing and low-grade fever 🌡️
Fatigue and loss of appetite 😴

Severe Stage (Paroxysmal Stage):

Intense, rapid coughing fits 😤
“Whooping” sound after coughs 😮‍💨
Vomiting after coughing
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue and exhaustion

Recovery Stage (Convalescent Stage):

Gradual reduction in coughing
Weakness may persist for weeks

⚠️ Complications

If untreated, pertussis can cause serious complications, especially in infants:

Pneumonia
Seizures
Brain damage due to lack of oxygen
Weight loss and dehydration
Death (in severe cases in infants)

❤️ Treatment & Prevention

Antibiotics: Treat bacterial infection and reduce transmission.
Supportive care:
- Hydration and rest
- Nutritional support
- Humidified air to ease coughing
Vaccination (DTaP/Tdap):
- Protects children and adults from pertussis.
- Booster shots recommended for adolescents and adults.
Avoid exposure: Keep infected people isolated until treatment reduces contagiousness.

🌍 Living with Whooping Cough

Most healthy adults recover fully with proper treatment.
Infants and young children need immediate medical care.
Vaccination and early diagnosis prevent spread in communities.

✅ Key Takeaway:
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects children but can occur in all ages. Early treatment, vaccination, and proper care can prevent serious complications and stop the spread of the disease.

🤧 Whooping Cough