Whooping Cough

Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable, violent

coughing.

upper respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria.

Respiratory System

When an infected person sneezes or coughs, tiny droplets containing the bacteria move through the air, and the disease is easily spread from person to person.

Causes

Infants younger than 18 months need constant supervision

An oxygen tent with high humidity may be used.

Treatment

antibiotics such as erythromycin Sedatives (medicines to make you sleepy)

may be prescribed for young children.

Pharmacology

The period between the time of infection and when symptoms of whooping cough appear is called the incubation period.

Progression of the disease

Usually curable in about 6 weeks with treatment.

Some persistent coughs may continue for months.

Outcomes

Complications include severe ear infection, nosebleeds, dehydration, pneumonia, convulsions, and in rare cases, brain damage and death.

Complications