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

    Misconceptions Over Preventing Peanut Allergy Persist Among Parents, Study Shows

    Adrenaline Nasal Sprays Work As Well As EpiPen For Allergic Shock

    Holiday Tips To Keep Allergies and Asthma Under Control

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Pediatric Allergy Specialist: Feed Babies Allergenic Foods Earlier, Not Later

    Timing Might Be Everything With Asthma Inhalers

    Mood Disorders Have Increased Among Kids, Teens

    Wildfire Smoke Flooded ERs With Asthma Cases

    Clean Indoor Air Key To Preventing Asthma Attacks

    New Discovery Could Change How Asthma Is Treated, Scientists Say

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

    Moderna’s mRNA Flu Vaccine Back Under FDA Review

    FDA Declines to Review Moderna’s mRNA Flu Vaccine Application

    Breakdown In Federal Health Tracking Leaves U.S. Vulnerable To Outbreaks, Pandemics, Experts Warn

    They Spent Hours In A Room Full Of Flu Patients And Walked Out Healthy — Here's How