Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is characterized by severe coughing fits that can be accompanied by a distinctive "whooping" sound when the person breathes in after coughing.

Whooping cough can affect people of all ages, but it is most severe in infants and young children, particularly those who are not fully vaccinated. The symptoms of whooping cough typically develop within 5-10 days after exposure to the bacteria and can include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Mild cough
• Low-grade fever
• Severe, persistent coughing fits that may be followed by a high-pitched "whoop" sound
• Vomiting or exhaustion after coughing fits

In infants, whooping cough can also cause apnea, a pause in breathing, or a blue or purple appearance of the skin.

Whooping cough can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, such as a throat culture or blood test.

The treatment for whooping cough typically involves a course of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and relieve symptoms. People with severe whooping cough may need to be hospitalized for treatment, particularly infants and young children.

Prevention is key in managing whooping cough. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive a series of vaccines against pertussis, starting at 2 months of age. In addition, adults who are in close contact with infants, such as parents and healthcare workers, should receive a booster vaccine to reduce the risk of transmitting the disease.

Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny germ-laden droplets are sprayed into the air and breathed into the lungs of anyone who happens to be nearby.

The best way to prevent whooping cough is with the pertussis vaccine, which doctors often give in combination with vaccines against two other serious diseases — diphtheria and tetanus. Doctors recommend beginning vaccination during infancy.

The vaccine consists of a series of five injections, typically given to children at these ages:

• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 15 to 18 months
• 4 to 6 years

Vaccine side effects

Side effects of the vaccine are usually mild and may include a fever, crankiness, headache, fatigue or soreness at the site of the injection.

Booster shots

• Adolescents. Because immunity from the pertussis vaccine tends to wane by age 11, doctors recommend a booster shot at that age to protect against whooping cough (pertussis), diphtheria and tetanus.
• Adults. Some varieties of the every-10-year tetanus and diphtheria vaccine also include protection against whooping cough (pertussis). This vaccine will also reduce the risk of your transmitting whooping cough to infants.
• Pregnant women. Health experts now recommend that pregnant women receive the pertussis vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. This may also give some protection to the infant during the first few months of life.

Preventive medications

If you've been exposed to someone who has whooping cough, your doctor may recommend antibiotics to protect against infection if you:

• Are a health care provider
• Are pregnant
• Are younger than age 12 months
• Have a health condition that could put you at risk of severe illness or complications, such as a weakened immune system or asthma
• Live with someone who has whooping cough
• Live with someone who is at high risk of developing severe illness or complications from a whooping cough infection

Infants are typically hospitalized for treatment because whooping cough is more dangerous for that age group. If your child can't keep down liquids or food, intravenous fluids may be necessary. Your child will also be isolated from others to prevent the infection from spreading.

Treatment for older children and adults usually can be managed at home.

Medications

Antibiotics kill the bacteria causing whooping cough and help speed recovery. Exposed family members may be given preventive antibiotics.

Unfortunately, not much is available to relieve the cough. Over-the-counter cough medicines, for instance, have little effect on whooping cough and are discouraged.