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Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

A contagious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis with prolonged paroxysmal cough and characteristic whooping sound.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough)?

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly contagious acute respiratory tract infection caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Bordetella pertussis, transmitted by respiratory droplets. It can be especially severe in unvaccinated infants.

The disease follows a three-stage course: catarrhal, paroxysmal, and convalescent. In the catarrhal stage, findings similar to the common cold are present; in the paroxysmal stage, consecutive coughing fits that can extend to 6-10 weeks and a 'whoop' sound on inhalation occur.

In infants, it can cause apnea, cyanosis, secondary pneumonia, encephalopathy, and death. Adolescents and adults have milder disease but become the source of transmission to infants. Effective protection is possible with DTaP vaccine; vaccination applied in the third trimester of pregnancy is very important in protecting the newborn.

Symptoms

Common cold-like findings at the onset (1-2 weeks)
Progressive, severe, consecutive coughing fits
Characteristic 'whoop' sound on inhalation after fits
Vomiting after coughing
Apnea and cyanosis episodes in infants
Facial cyanosis and subconjunctival hemorrhage due to coughing
Persistent cough lasting weeks

Risk Factors

Unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated infants
Mothers not vaccinated during pregnancy
Cases requiring hospitalization and intensive care
Young adulthood and adolescence (loss of immunity)
Healthcare workers and teachers
Daycare and school environments
Immune suppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Paroxysmal cough lasting more than two weeks
  • Coughing fits and apnea in infants
  • Cyanosis and feeding difficulty
  • Fever, shortness of breath, or suspected pneumonia
  • Similar cough in close contacts

Treatment Methods

01
Macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin, erythromycin)
02
Hospitalization and close monitoring in infants
03
Oxygen support and respiratory support (as needed)
04
Prevention of dehydration and nutritional support
05
Primary protection with DTaP and Tdap vaccines
06
Tdap vaccine at 27-36 weeks of pregnancy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.