Understanding its symptoms and causes is key to early detection and prevention, since whooping cough remains one of the most persistent respiratory infections.
What Is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads easily through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it highly contagious in enclosed spaces.
The illness is characterized by severe coughing fits, often followed by a sharp “whooping” sound as the patient gasps for air.
Historically, whooping cough caused thousands of deaths in the 1930s and 1940s. With the introduction of routine vaccination, these numbers dropped dramatically, according to the American Lung Association. Still, the disease has seen a resurgence since the 1980s, particularly among:
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Teenagers (ages 10–19)
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Infants under six months
This is often linked to declining vaccination rates or the waning effectiveness of older vaccine doses.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
In its early stage, whooping cough can look very similar to the common cold, which delays diagnosis. Symptoms may include:
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Frequent sneezing
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Mild cough
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Low-grade fever
After one to two weeks, the disease typically worsens:
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Severe coughing fits that make breathing difficult
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In children, coughing may lead to lips and fingernails turning bluish due to lack of oxygen
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Infants under six months may not cough at all but instead show dangerous pauses in breathing (apnea)
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose whooping cough by reviewing the patient’s medical history, examining symptoms, and testing nasal secretions for bacteria. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, early diagnosis is crucial—prompt treatment not only reduces complications but also limits the spread to others.
Treatment Options
If diagnosed within the first three weeks, antibiotics are prescribed to shorten the illness and lessen symptoms. After this stage, antibiotics are less effective since the bacteria may have already left the body, but supportive care becomes essential:
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Adequate rest
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Plenty of fluids
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Small, frequent meals to reduce vomiting
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Avoiding irritants like smoke, dust, and chemical odors
Doctors strongly advise against using over-the-counter cough medicines, as they are ineffective and potentially harmful. Severe cases—especially in infants—may require hospitalization for oxygen support and monitoring.
Preventing Whooping Cough
The best defense is vaccination.
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Children receive five doses of the DTaP vaccine in their early years.
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Adolescents and adults need booster shots (Tdap).
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Pregnant women are advised to get a booster during the third trimester to protect their newborns in the first few months of life.
In addition, doctors recommend preventive antibiotics for all family members if one person is diagnosed, due to the infection’s high transmission rate.
Other protective measures include:
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Washing hands regularly
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Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
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Staying home while sick to reduce spread
Final Word
While vaccination has greatly reduced the impact of whooping cough, the disease is still present and can be life-threatening if overlooked. Recognizing symptoms early, seeking timely medical care, and ensuring up-to-date vaccinations are the most effective ways to protect children and families from this stubborn respiratory infection.
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