Health Tip: Understanding Whooping Cough

(HealthDay News) -- Whooping cough is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, the Nemours Foundation says.

The highly contagious infection, typically affecting children. can trigger coughing spells that can last more than a minute.

The child's face may turn red or purple, and the child may vomit, Nemours adds.

Nemours offers this additional information about whooping cough:

  • It can be prevented by the whooping cough vaccine, which is among DTaP immunizations given in a series of five doses during infancy.
  • People who come into close contact with someone who has whopping cough should be given an antibiotic to help prevent the disease from spreading.
  • Adults should get a booster shot if they have a new baby. The infection can cause life-threatening problems among babies.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    FDA Warns Top National Bakery to Stop Listing Allergens in Products When They Aren't There

    How to Treat Spring Allergies: A Graduated Approach

    Rare Red Meat Allergy Linked To More Tick Species

    Allergy Expert Gives Tips On Seasonal Allergies

    There's Still Confusion on How to Spot, Treat Severe Allergic Reactions

    1 in 6 U.S. Adults With Asthma Can't Afford Meds

    Late-Life Menopause Linked to Higher Asthma Risk

    Back-to-School Tips to Helping Your Kids Breathe Easier

    Time Of Day, Year Matters For Asthma Testing

    Race-Neutral Formulas Improve Asthma Detection in Black Children

    Obesity Raises Risk of Severe Infection, Especially in People With Diabetes

    Bird Flu Virus Stays Active on Cow Milking Equipment for at Least One Hour

    Americans Still Consider COVID Major Public Health Threat

    CDC Reports Potentially Troublesome Mutations in Bird Flu Found in Louisiana Patient

    Blood Test May Help Predict How Long Immunity Lasts