Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing spells that can last for weeks or even months. The disease primarily affects the respiratory tract and is spread through the air via droplets from an infected person's coughs or sneezes. Infants and young children, particularly those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, are most at risk for serious complications, including pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death. Vaccination with the DTaP vaccine is the most effective way to prevent pertussis in children, with booster vaccines recommended for older children and adults.

The hallmark symptom of pertussis is a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like "whoop," though not all patients exhibit this symptom. Diagnosis is generally confirmed through lab tests that detect the presence of B. pertussis DNA or through a culture of the respiratory secretions. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and the management of symptoms. However, early initiation of treatment is crucial; once severe coughing begins, antibiotics may not reduce the symptom duration, though they can still prevent the spread of the disease.