Pertussis Whooping Cough Symptoms

Categories: Health

Bordetella pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes whooping cough, usually referred to as pertussis. A terrible cough that lasts for weeks or months is its defining feature. Although whooping cough can afflict people of all ages, it is most common in newborns and early children.

Symptoms of Pertussis

The age at which a person contracts pertussis can affect the symptoms. When it comes to babies and young toddlers, the symptoms could be:

❍Runny or stuffy nose

❍Low-grade fever (less than 100.4°F)

❍Mild, occasional cough

❍ breathing pauses that are potentially fatal) and cyanosis (becoming blue or purple)

The following are possible signs of pertussis in older kids and adults:

❍A severe cough that can last for weeks or months

❍A whooping sound during the cough

❍Vomiting after coughing

❍Fatigue

❍Weight loss

Stages of Pertussis

There are three stages of pertussis:

❍Catarrhal stage: This stage lasts for 1 to 2 weeks and is characterized by a runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild cough.

❍Paroxysmal stage: This stage lasts for 3 to 6 weeks and is characterized by a severe cough that can last for weeks or months. The cough may be followed by a whooping sound, vomiting, and fatigue.

❍Convalescent stage: The symptoms gradually become better throughout this phase, which can extend for a few weeks or months.

Diagnosis of Pertussis

A doctor can diagnose pertussis based on the patient's medical history and symptoms. The diagnosis of pertussis can also be made using a laboratory test, such as a PCR test.

Treatment of Pertussis

Although there isn't a treatment for pertussis, medications can delay the illness's progression and reduce its spread. Hospitalisation may be required in certain situations.

Prevention of Pertussis

Getting vaccinated is the best defence against pertussis. The DTaP vaccination is a trivalent vaccination that offers defence against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. At the following ages, children should take five doses of the DTaP vaccination:

❍2 months

❍4 months

❍6 months

❍15-18 months

❍4-6 years

Every ten years, adults should additionally receive a booster dose of the Tdap vaccine.

Complications of Pertussis

Pertussis can occasionally result in consequences like pneumonia, convulsions, and brain damage. Pertussis can also be lethal, particularly in young children.

When to See a Doctor

It's critical to consult a physician as soon as possible if you suspect that you or your kid may have pertussis. Complications can be avoided with an early diagnosis and course of therapy.

I hope this article is helpful.