Diseases
pertussis
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Whooping cough (pertussis) can cause serious illness in people of all ages but is most dangerous for babies. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against pertussis. Make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with your whooping cough vaccines. Whooping Cough Vaccination.
Symptoms
- cough
- fever
- runny nose
- nasal congestion
- red, watery eyes
Causes
- whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called bordetella pertussis.
Risk factors
- infants who are younger than age 12 months who are unvaccinated
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- a nose or throat culture and test.
- a chest x-ray.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is pertussis?
Whooping cough (pertussis) can cause serious illness in people of all ages but is most dangerous for babies. Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against pertussis. Make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with your whooping cough vaccines. Whooping Cough Vaccination.
What are the symptoms of pertussis?
cough, fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, red, watery eyes
What causes pertussis?
whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called bordetella pertussis.
Which medicines are used for pertussis?
erythromycin
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.