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Whooping Cough
Moderate
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It is characterized by repeated, severe coughing fits that may make it difficult to breathe. After a coughing spell, a person may make a whooping sound when breathing in or may vomit. The infection can be especially serious in babies and young children.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for significant breathing difficulty, pauses in breathing, bluish lips or face, repeated vomiting with inability to maintain fluids, severe weakness, dehydration, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Infants and people at higher risk of complications may require prompt medical assessment.
Symptoms
2
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It is characterized by repeated, severe coughing fits that may make it difficult to breathe. After a coughing spell, a person may make a whooping sound when breathing in or may vomit. The infection can be especially serious in babies and young children.
Symptoms 2
Dry Cough
Fever
Causes 1
Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spread from an infected person through respiratory droplets released when coughing or sneezing. A person can spread the infection before the characteristic coughing fits become obvious. Close contact with an infected person increases the chance of transmission, particularly when vaccination protection has decreased.
Infection
Risk Factors
People who have not received recommended pertussis vaccinations are at greater risk of developing whooping cough. Protection can also decrease over time after vaccination. Infants who are too young to have completed their vaccinations are particularly vulnerable to severe disease. Close household or community exposure to an infected person also increases the risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Whooping cough is diagnosed from the symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. The characteristic prolonged coughing fits can provide an important clue. A healthcare provider may collect a sample from the nose or throat for laboratory testing to detect Bordetella pertussis. Testing can help confirm the infection, especially during the early stages of illness.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Vaccination is the main way to prevent whooping cough
Recommended pertussis-containing vaccines provide protection and are given according to age-based immunization schedules, with booster doses recommended at appropriate ages
Avoiding close contact with infected people and following medical advice when illness occurs can also reduce transmission
Early treatment may help limit spread
Prevention Guidance
Vaccination is the main way to prevent whooping cough. Recommended pertussis-containing vaccines provide protection and are given according to age-based immunization schedules, with booster doses recommended at appropriate ages. Avoiding close contact with infected people and following medical advice when illness occurs can also reduce transmission. Early treatment may help limit spread.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Oral Fluids
Prevent dehydration.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and energy.
Rice and Porridge
Easy to digest.
Vegetable Soup
Supports recovery.
Foods to Avoid
Oily Foods
May slow digestion.
Alcohol
Can worsen dehydration.
Heavy Meals
May cause digestive discomfort.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Malaria is a parasitic disease spread through mosquito bites.
Fever, chills, sweating, headache, and fatigue are common symptoms.
Yes, malaria is usually curable with appropriate medicines.
Blood smear and rapid diagnostic tests are commonly used.
Use mosquito nets, repellents, and avoid mosquito breeding areas.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.