Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a serious, contagious (others can easily get the disease), bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system causing severe coughing attacks. The Bordetella pertussis bacteria are the cause of the infection. The bacteria are spread from person to person by direct contact or airborne transmission (infected tiny droplets spread through the air by breathing or coughing). Children under age 2 are more commonly affected although anyone can get the infection. There is a vaccine available as part of the DtaP immunization. Risk increases to those who are not immunized and during late winter.

Symptoms may include:

• Coughing in which the cough occurs as an attack (2-3 coughs without inhaling) and has a distinctive sound; it is high pitched and often ends with an inhaling "whoop"
• Cough may be productive (produces mucous) or non-productive
• Runny nose
• Fever, usually 102°F or lower
• Choking spells following coughing attacks. This is more common in infants
• Vomiting following a coughing attack
• Diarrhea

WHAT YOUR DOCTOR CAN DO:

• Diagnose pertussis by asking about symptoms, doing a physical exam, laboratory blood tests, and X-rays
• Prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection. Young children need to be watched carefully since their coughs may lead to periods of apnea (breathing stops)
• More severe cases may require hospitalization

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Give the antibiotic as prescribed by your physician. Be certain you give it all, even after symptoms improve
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to help loosen the secretions
• Provide an environment conducive to rest
• Encourage extra fluids to avoid dehydration
• Avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the infection
• Have your child vaccinated against whooping cough

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:

• Recovery usually takes several weeks (6-12), with a lingering cough after the infection has cleared up.
• Possible complications include pneumonia, ear infections, breathing difficulties, apnea, seizures or convulsions.

CALL 1061 OR SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE If your child has symptoms of whooping cough, your child has a seizure, periods of apnea, symptoms persist or get worse.