How do you know if you have whooping cough?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can last for weeks or even months.
Recognizing the symptoms of whooping cough early is crucial for preventing its spread and ensuring timely treatment.
The initial symptoms of whooping cough are often similar to those of a common cold, including a runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, red and watery eyes, a mild fever, and a dry cough.
These early symptoms can last for one to two weeks before the more severe symptoms begin.
As the disease progresses, the cough becomes more severe and is characterized by a series of rapid coughs followed by a high-pitched "whoop" sound as the person breathes in.
This whooping sound is more common in children, while adults may experience a prolonged cough without the whoop.
Other symptoms during this stage may include vomiting after coughing, exhaustion after coughing fits, and difficulty breathing.
Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to whooping cough and may experience more severe symptoms, such as apnea (a pause in breathing), which can be life-threatening.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect whooping cough, especially in young children or infants.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough, but if you or your child are experiencing symptoms, it is important to get diagnosed and treated promptly.
Antibiotics can help reduce the severity of the symptoms and prevent the spread of the disease to others.
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