The highly contagious infection was once primarily a childhood illness—but it's on the rise in teens and adults. Whooping cough used to be primarily a childhood disease—and one that was becoming less and less common. In , there were only 1, cases of whooping cough in the entire United States. But today, there are close to 50, documented cases of whooping cough also called pertussis in the U. There are different explanations for the trend. One is that the newer vaccine is less effective than the older one.

What Is Whooping Cough? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention



Adult pertussis is unrecognized public health problem in Thailand
Back to Health A to Z. Whooping cough also called pertussis is a bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes. It spreads very easily. Whooping cough can spread very easily. It's best to call the GP before you go in.


Adult pertussis is unrecognized public health problem in Thailand
Whooping cough pertussis is a very contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. When this bacteria infects the linings of the lungs, it causes significant inflammation and swollen airways. The result is intense, uncontrollable coughing. Because whooping cough mimics the common cold, the flu, and bronchitis , it can be tricky to diagnose whooping cough early. But healthcare providers may be able to diagnose whooping cough by conducting an exam, asking specific questions regarding symptoms, and by simply listening to the cough.



Although it often begins like a mild cold, it can progress to cause uncontrollable, severe, prolonged coughing spells that make it hard to breathe. Pertussis is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. The bacteria attach themselves to the upper respiratory tract nose and throat and release toxins that damage the airways.