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

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Adrenaline Nasal Sprays Work As Well As EpiPen For Allergic Shock

    Many Kids Unnecessarily Hospitalized Following Allergic Reactions

    Are You Ruining Your Child's Chance To Avoid Food Allergies?

    Mothers' Milk Might Be Key To Avoiding Childhood Food Allergies

    Medicaid 'Unwinding' Cost Kids Access To Asthma Inhalers, Other Chronic Disease Meds

    Wildfire Smoke Flooded ERs With Asthma Cases

    Night Shift Associated With Asthma Risk In Women

    UV Air Filters Cut Airborne Asthma Triggers, Study Finds

    Clean Indoor Air Key To Preventing Asthma Attacks

    Moderna's Combo Flu and COVID Shot Shows Promise

    Holiday Flu Surge Drives Record Illness Across the United States

    Why Vaccines Are Especially Important for Children With Asthma

    The Reason Why Many Older Americans Skip Seasonal Vaccines

    Scientists' Push For a Universal Vaccine Takes a Key Step Forward