What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping Cough is a virus that affects the nose and throat, giving the victim extreme coughing spells, leaving them gasping for breath, a sound like a "whoop."
Causes
The cause of Whooping Cough is an infection by a bacterium known as Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria attach to the lining of the airways in the upper respiratory system and release toxins that lead to inflammation and swelling.
Signs and Symptoms
- Mild Coughing that progressively gets more severe
- Sneezing
- Runny Nose
- Low Fever
Treatment
- Erythromycin is taken for 2 weeks
- Humidifier and other comfort items
Prevention
- TDaP vaccine in children
- Tdap vaccine in adults
Credits:
Created with images by Couleur - "wave sea water"