Pertussis transmission routes

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on February 18, 2025
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Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory disease often seen in children. It is typically caused by infection with the Bordetella pertussis or Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria, and is mainly transmitted through airborne droplets and close contact with infected individuals. It has a strong contagion potential, with contagiousness becoming significant about two to three weeks from the incubation period to the onset of symptoms. Once diagnosed, it is crucial to isolate the patient promptly and administer medications to alleviate discomfort. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through the cultivation of the pathogen. Treatment includes medications to thin the mucus, isolation of the infectious source, and the use of macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin or azithromycin to manage inflammation during the acute phase.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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How is whooping cough diagnosed?

If the body has chronic cough symptoms that do not heal over time and recur frequently, it is suspicious of pertussis infection. To confirm this disease, corresponding auxiliary examinations are needed, such as a complete blood count and sputum culture. If Bordetella pertussis or Corynebacterium diphtheriae are cultured from the sputum, a diagnosis can be made. It is also necessary to combine clinical symptoms and promptly use sensitive antibiotics and cough-relieving expectorant drugs for symptomatic treatment, adjusting the mindset to avoid mental tension.

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Written by Zeng Hai Jiang
Pediatrics
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What should be paid attention to in the diet for whooping cough?

Whooping cough is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by infection with Bordetella pertussis, mainly characterized by paroxysmal spasmodic cough, crowing inspiratory noise, commonly seen in children. In terms of diet, children with whooping cough should eat light and nutritious food. Do not eat spicy, greasy, or cold foods, as spicy foods can irritate the tracheal mucosa, and cold or greasy foods can damage the spleen and stomach, potentially exacerbating inflammatory changes.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Is the pertussis vaccine a live vaccine?

The pertussis vaccine is a type of attenuated live vaccine, which clinically is mainly part of a combination vaccine that includes pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus, commonly referred to as the DTP vaccine. Normally, a baby should receive the first dose at three months of age, followed by the second dose in the fourth and fifth months, as part of basic immunization. Between the age of eighteen months and two years, another dose is administered to boost immunity, which after producing lifelong antibodies, prevents reinfection with the disease.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can you still get whooping cough even if you have been vaccinated?

If the whooping cough vaccine is administered effectively and antibodies are produced, it generally prevents reinfection. However, if the vaccine is not administered according to the prescribed schedule, or if no antibodies are produced after the vaccination, exposure to this pathogen may still lead to infection. The disease is characterized by fits of coughing, which can cause blushing, runny nose, tears, nausea, and vomiting. Some children may also experience a barking cough and a crowing sound during inhalation.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Where to get tested for whooping cough

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a prevalent infectious respiratory disease in children. If the disease is suspected, one can visit a nearby public hospital for a physical examination. Tests can include a complete blood count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as a sputum culture to identify pathogens such as Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Bordetella pertussis for diagnosis. Typical symptoms include a cough resembling a dog's bark or a crowing sound. Prompt treatment with macrolide antibiotics and cough suppressants and expectorants is necessary to alleviate discomfort.