Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial disease. It is most common in infants and young children, but can also affect adults and adolescents. It is spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms of whooping cough can range from mild to severe, depending on the age of the person and how long they have been infected.
Risk Factors
Whooping cough is most common in infants and young children, especially those who are not fully vaccinated. Children who are too young to be fully vaccinated or those who have not been vaccinated at all are at the highest risk. Adolescents and adults can also get whooping cough, especially if they have not been vaccinated or if their vaccinations have worn off.
Symptoms
The symptoms of whooping cough can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild cough. As the infection progresses, the cough may become severe and can be accompanied by a “whoop” sound when the person breathes in. In severe cases, the person may experience difficulty breathing, vomiting, and exhaustion.
Treatment
Treatment for whooping cough typically includes antibiotics, rest, and fluids. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough. Vaccines are available for both children and adults, and they are usually given in multiple doses over a period of time.