Whooping cough vaccine

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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The vaccine for pertussis is generally a type of compound vaccine, belonging to the triple vaccine category, primarily the DTP vaccine. This vaccine can prevent common infectious pathogens such as whooping cough, diphtheria, and tetanus. It is necessary to take children to the hospital for timely vaccinations according to the treatment schedule to effectively produce antibodies, which can provide effective prevention and treatment. It is also important to pay attention to the cleanliness of indoor air, ensure indoor air disinfection, and avoid going to crowded environments, especially during the flu season to strengthen protection.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What are the characteristics of the onset of whooping cough?

Pertussis is characterized by its distinctive cough, featuring episodes of spasmodic coughing that is intense and can lead to redness in the face and ears, a runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and headaches, among other complications. Some infants and toddlers may also exhibit a bark-like cough and an inspiratory "crowing" sound. Clinically, it is most commonly seen in children under five years of age. Diagnosis requires testing such as pathogen culture, complete blood count, and chest X-rays. Targeted antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatments are then administered accordingly.

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Written by Tong Peng
Pediatrics
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The difference between pertussis and allergic cough

Pertussis (whooping cough) and allergic cough are different. Firstly, pertussis is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. Its symptoms include paroxysmal and frequent coughing, sometimes accompanied by a deep, crowing, inspiratory whoop sound. If not treated promptly, the condition can last for several months, which is why it is called whooping cough. Due to its high contagiosity and epidemic history, if infants contract pertussis, their condition can worsen, making them prone to complications like severe pneumonia or heart failure. However, allergic cough is a non-infectious condition primarily caused by hypersensitivity of the airways, easily triggered by various external allergens, leading to irritating dry coughs, but not worsening to lower respiratory tract infections. In daily life, by avoiding environmental allergens and using treatments such as nebulization and oral antiallergic medications, management is possible.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How to treat recurrent pertussis?

For recurrent whooping cough, it is crucial to promptly and adequately select sensitive antimicrobial drugs according to the treatment course. Generally, macrolide antibiotics or amide antibiotics can be used for anti-inflammatory treatment. Also, drink more water and avoid overly spicy, greasy foods. If the patient is weak and has low immunity, transfer factors or splenopentin can be chosen to enhance the body's passive immunity. Regular outdoor exercise should be engaged in, and the diet should be nutritionally balanced with less snacking and more consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Why is whooping cough worse at night?

One reason why whooping cough is more severe at night is due to the dry air indoors which irritates, and another reason is due to changes in body posture. As the body is in a supine or lateral position during sleep at night, the bronchial mucous secretion cannot be expelled from the body, which stimulates the bronchial nerves and induces symptoms such as coughing. The typical cough is a paroxysmal spasmodic cough, and it can also lead to red face, runny nose, and in severe cases, nasal discharge, tears, nausea, and vomiting. It is necessary to receive timely anti-inflammatory treatment and maintain the cleanliness of the indoor air.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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What are the symptoms of pertussis encephalopathy?

Pertussis encephalopathy typically presents with persistent high fever, projectile vomiting, nausea, and severe headaches, which are indicators of increased intracranial pressure. It is necessary to conduct timely auxiliary examinations such as cerebrospinal fluid tests and cranial MRI for diagnosis. In conjunction with clinical symptoms, medications to alleviate cerebral edema and reduce intracranial pressure should be chosen for symptomatic treatment. Typically, corticosteroids are needed during the acute phase, along with mannitol, sedatives, and other symptomatic treatments. Additionally, antibiotics should be used to eliminate the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, the pathogen responsible for the condition.