Our Pertussis Main Article provides a comprehensive look at the who, what, when and how of Pertussis

Definition of Pertussis

Pertussis: Whooping cough, a communicable, potentially deadly illness characterized by fits of coughing followed by a noisy, "whooping" indrawn breath. It is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. The illness is most likely to affect young children, but sometimes appears in teenagers and adults, even those who have been previously immunized. Immunization with DPT (diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus) vaccine provides protection, although that immunity may wear off with age. When teenagers and adults get pertussis, it appears first as coughing spasms, and then a stubborn dry cough lasting up to eight weeks.

Treatment is by supportive therapy, and young infants need hospitalization if the coughing becomes severe. See DPT immunization, DTaP immunization.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• azithromycin, Zithromax, Zmax - Establishes the medication azithromycin (Zithromax), a drug that is effective against susceptible bacteria causing infections, and certain sexually transmitted infectious diseases.
• Childhood Vaccination Schedule - Read our printable children's immunization schedule and learn about vaccines for kids (Hib, polio, DTaP, MMR, HPV, flu, chickenpox, meningitis, rotavirus, pneumonia, hepatitis A and B).
• Fever - Get the facts on fever treatment (in children and adults). Learn ways to bring down a high fever and know the signs of other serious types of major illness.

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