icon
icon

About Us

Success Stories

Careers

Quick Links

Contact

Media

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Book an Appointment arrow Book a Health Checkup arrow
Acute

What is Whooping Cough (Pertussis)?

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. In many people, it's marked by a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like "whoop." Before the vaccine was developed, whooping cough was considered a childhood disease.

Book an Appointment arrow Book a Health Checkup arrow
  • Coughing, violently and rapidly, until all the air has left the lungs and a person is forced to inhale, causing a "whooping" sound
  • Sneezing
  • Nasal discharge
  • Fever
  • Sore, watery eyes
  • Lips, tongue, and nailbeds may turn blue during coughing spells
  • Pertussis in infants is often severe, and infants are more likely than older children or adults to develop complications
  • The most common complication of pertussis is bacterial pneumonia
  • Rare complications include seizures, inflammation of the brain, and death

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The disease is only found in humans. Whooping cough bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system.

The best way to prevent whooping cough is to get vaccinated. CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for everyone. Learn who should get which whooping cough vaccines and when. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself against whooping cough.

Infants who are younger than age 12 months who are unvaccinated or haven't received the full set of recommended vaccines have the highest risk for severe complications and death.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

Doctors generally treat whooping cough with antibiotics. There are several antibiotics available to treat whooping cough. It's very important to treat whooping cough early, before coughing fits begin. Starting treatment after three weeks of illness is unlikely to help even though most people will still have symptoms.

Book an Appointment arrow Book a Health Checkup arrow

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

Your doctor takes a swab or suction sample from the area where the nose and throat meet (nasopharynx). The sample is then checked for evidence of the presence of whooping cough bacteria.

Consult with experienced Doctors

MGMCH is home to some of the most eminent doctors in the world, most of whom are pioneers in their respective arenas and are renowned for developing
innovative and revolutionary procedures

Book an Appointment Book an Appointment
Specialities Specialities
Patient Support Patient Support
Menu Menu

Book an Appointment

arrow arrow
  • icon

    18001806002

  • icon

    guestrelations@mgumst.org

  • icon

    RIICO Institutional Area, Sitapura, Tonk Road, Jaipur - 302 022 (Rajasthan) INDIA

    • International Patient
    Test & Health Packages
    Contact Us