What is whooping cough?

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 24, 2024
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Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. It primarily infects infants under the age of five, leading to distinctive coughing fits that are paroxysmal and may also include a barking cough or a crowing sound during inhalation. Some may also experience redness of the face and ears, runny nose, teary eyes, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting as complications. Upon observing these typical symptoms, it is advised to visit a hospital for appropriate diagnostic tests and timely symptomatic treatment, along with maintaining adequate hydration and keeping the indoor temperature comfortable.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What are the symptoms of whooping cough?

Pertussis has many symptoms. The early symptoms are the same as those of a common cold, including a runny nose, sore throat, and fever. About one to two weeks later, episodic, spastic coughing occurs. Some may also experience a barking cough and a crowing sound during inhalation, which are characteristic symptoms of pertussis. This type of cough can lead to complications such as an acute facial expression, redness in the face and ears, runny nose, tears, and vomiting. It is necessary to culture the pathogen and choose sensitive antibiotics to kill this bordetella pertussis.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Does whooping cough infect adults?

Pertussis, a respiratory infectious disease, can also be transmitted to adults, although the chances are generally small. It mostly occurs in adults with low immunity and those who are frail and ill when they come into contact with the pathogen. The incubation period is about two to three weeks, during which paroxysmal cluster-like coughing occurs, causing facial redness and a runny nose. Some may also experience nausea and vomiting. It is necessary to check chest X-rays, routine blood tests, and sputum pathogen cultures for diagnosis. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent other complications.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Is whooping cough contagious?

Pertussis, a type of disease, is an infectious respiratory infection, thus it is contagious. If there is a pertussis patient in the home, it is recommended to isolate the patient for treatment, ensure air ventilation and disinfection in the living space, and use personal items separately. Patients should ideally wear masks to block the bacteria from spreading through respiratory passages, and should actively choose antimicrobial drugs to control the infection, drink plenty of water, and rest sufficiently. When feverish, adopt physical methods to reduce fever or take antipyretic medication for symptomatic treatment. The main principle should be to choose macrolide antibiotics to control the infection. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Li Jian Wu
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Pertussis and measles transmission pathways

Pertussis and measles are two types of diseases, both of which are respiratory infectious diseases. Pertussis is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae or Bordetella pertussis, while measles is an acute, infectious disease caused by the measles virus. Transmission mainly occurs through close contact with infected individuals and via airborne droplets, and it is commonly seen in infants and young children under the age of five. Prevention of these diseases is primarily through vaccination, and once the disease occurs, it is important to promptly treat the infection with anti-inflammatory or antiviral treatments, while also managing the symptoms accordingly.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can whooping cough recur?

Pertussis, a respiratory infectious disease, is contagious and mainly transmitted through airborne droplets. Once infected and treated promptly and properly, the body will develop immunity and produce antibodies, though not for life. Relapse is possible, but generally, it does not recur within three to five years after recovery. If symptoms of cold and cough appear, it is possible that they are caused by other pathogens or allergic factors.