Bordetella Pertussis, aka Whooping Cough
Pertussis (aka, whooping cough) is a respiratory tract infection characterized by a paroxysmal cough. The most common causative organism is Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in infants younger than 2 years.
Symptoms usually develop within 5 to 10 days after exposure, but sometimes not for as long as 21 days.
Transmission is usually person to person through respiratory droplets or contact with airborne droplets.
The best way to prevent the spread of pertussis is by vaccination.
Pertussis Vaccination Recommendations | Whooping Cough | CDC
If an individual is exposed to a confirmed case, post exposure antimicrobial prophylaxis is recommended, especially for
- Household contacts of a pertussis case
- People at high risk of developing severe pertussis infection
- Those who will have contact with people at high risk of developing severe pertussis infection
Postexposure Antimicrobial Prophylaxis | Pertussis (Whooping Cough) | CDC
Practicing good hygiene is recommended to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Individuals should cover their cough or sneeze and wash their hands often with soap and water.
Pertussis is common and reportable to the health department.