What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by a severe, hacking cough followed by a high-pitched "whoop" sound. Whooping cough can affect people of all ages but is most serious in babies and young children.
What Causes Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, which is spread through coughing and sneezing. It is most commonly spread from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes into the air, releasing the bacteria-laden droplets into the air. The bacteria can then be inhaled by anyone in the vicinity.
Who is at Risk of Whooping Cough?
Anyone can develop whooping cough, but it is more common in children, especially those under the age of five. People with weakened immune systems or those who have not been vaccinated against the disease are also at increased risk.
What is the Treatment for Whooping Cough?
The treatment for whooping cough is usually antibiotics, such as azithromycin or erythromycin. These medications will help to reduce the severity and duration of the illness. In some cases, a pertussis vaccine may be administered to prevent the disease from spreading.
How Can Whooping Cough be Prevented?
The best way to prevent whooping cough is to get vaccinated. The vaccine is typically given as part of the 5-in-1 combined vaccine, which also protects against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and Hib. Vaccination is recommended for all children, as well as adults who have not been vaccinated or have not had a booster shot in the past 10 years.