Whooping cough, medically called pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads easily when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria into the air. The disease often begins like a common cold but can progress to severe coughing fits that may last for weeks or even months.

People at higher risk of contracting or developing severe pertussis include:

• Infants and Young Children: Babies under 12 months, especially those not fully vaccinated, are at the highest risk for severe pertussis and complications
• Lack of Vaccination or Waning Immunity: Children, teenagers, and adults who haven’t completed their DTaP or Tdap vaccines, or whose immunity has decreased over time, are more susceptible.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, can pass the infection to newborns who are too young to be fully vaccinated.
• Weakened Immune System: People with compromised immune systems due to illness, medication, or chronic conditions have a higher risk of severe infection.
• Close Contact with an Infected Person: Living with or being near someone who has whooping cough increases the chance of contracting the bacteria through respiratory droplets.

Although symptoms can be prolonged, early treatment helps limit the spread and may reduce the severity:

Antibiotics: Antibiotics such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, or erythromycin are used to kill Bordetella pertussis bacteria. When started early in the infection, they can reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the spread of the disease to others, especially in households or communities.

Hospital Care: Infants, young children, and high-risk patients may require hospitalization if they experience breathing difficulties, dehydration, or severe coughing fits. Hospital care can include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and constant monitoring to manage complications safely.

Home Care: At home, patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and avoid exposure to smoke or irritants. Using a cool-mist humidifier can ease coughing, and maintaining a calm environment helps reduce coughing triggers, particularly during nighttime coughing fits.

Cough Medicines: Over-the-counter cough medicines are usually not effective for pertussis. They should only be used if a healthcare provider specifically recommends them, as managing the cough naturally and supporting overall comfort is typically more effective.