How to diagnose the incubation period of pertussis

Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

Updated on January 29, 2025

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The incubation period of whooping cough generally has no autonomous discomfort symptoms. If there is close contact with a patient and the body lacks antibodies, suspecting the presence of this pathogen, corresponding auxiliary examinations can be conducted for diagnosis. Bacteriological examinations and fluorescent antibody methods can be performed, using nasopharyngeal swab secretions smear or nasal mucosa impression smear fluorescent antibody staining to detect specific antigens, with an early positive rate of 75%-85%. Complement fixation tests in serology can also be conducted to detect specific antibodies, effectively aiding in the diagnosis of atypical cases.

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Written by Tong Peng

Pediatrics

48sec

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What should I do if whooping cough keeps recurring?

Whooping cough is repeatedly characterized by coughing due to its specific etiology. As a type of upper respiratory tract infectious disease, whooping cough mainly results from external stimuli causing respiratory infections. It tends to affect populations with weaker immunity and resistance, especially infants. Furthermore, in daily life, it's important to avoid contact with or consumption of foods that may cause allergies or irritate the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. It's crucial to ensure proper ventilation in living environments, and symptomatic medication should be administered to whooping cough patients. Treatment may involve oral medications or inhalation therapy, and regular follow-ups are necessary to control the condition and prevent recurrence.

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Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

56sec

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Is whooping cough contagious?

Whooping cough is a contagious disease, and principally transmitted from person to person. Currently, an effective way to prevent this disease is by vaccination with the DTaP vaccine. The name "whooping cough" does not mean the cough lasts for a hundred days; this is just a colloquial expression referring to its prolonged duration. The primary symptoms of this disease include severe, spasmodic coughing, during which the patient may exhibit redness in the face and ears, a runny nose, and even nausea and vomiting. Additional symptoms can include cyanosis of the lips and choking. In severe cases, it can cause whole-body convulsions leading to ischemic and hypoxic encephalopathy. Once diagnosed, it is crucial to promptly treat with antibiotics and medications that relieve bronchial smooth muscle spasms. During the acute phase, corticosteroids may also be used in treatment.

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Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

47sec

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What are the symptoms of pertussis encephalopathy?

Pertussis encephalopathy typically presents with persistent high fever, projectile vomiting, nausea, and severe headaches, which are indicators of increased intracranial pressure. It is necessary to conduct timely auxiliary examinations such as cerebrospinal fluid tests and cranial MRI for diagnosis. In conjunction with clinical symptoms, medications to alleviate cerebral edema and reduce intracranial pressure should be chosen for symptomatic treatment. Typically, corticosteroids are needed during the acute phase, along with mannitol, sedatives, and other symptomatic treatments. Additionally, antibiotics should be used to eliminate the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, the pathogen responsible for the condition.

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Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

33sec

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Is the pertussis vaccine a live vaccine?

The pertussis vaccine is a type of attenuated live vaccine, which clinically is mainly part of a combination vaccine that includes pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus, commonly referred to as the DTP vaccine. Normally, a baby should receive the first dose at three months of age, followed by the second dose in the fourth and fifth months, as part of basic immunization. Between the age of eighteen months and two years, another dose is administered to boost immunity, which after producing lifelong antibodies, prevents reinfection with the disease.

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Written by Li Jian Wu

Pulmonology

48sec

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Is whooping cough an infectious disease?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a contagious disease that is a respiratory tract infection. It primarily spreads through airborne droplets and close daily contact. Clinically, there is a vaccine available for this condition, mainly the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine. Following the vaccination schedule and developing antibodies can effectively prevent the disease. This disease has a lengthy course and can easily cause recurrent coughing episodes and persistent symptoms. It is important to correctly understand and be aware of the characteristics of its onset. If suspected, early examination and timely selection of medications for symptom control are essential, along with addressing the underlying cause.