What are the two signs and symptoms of pertussis?
After 1 to 2 weeks and as the disease progresses, the traditional symptoms of pertussis may appear and include:
- Paroxysms (fits) of many, rapid coughs followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound.
- Vomiting (throwing up) during or after coughing fits.
- Exhaustion (very tired) after coughing fits.
How do you get pertussis virus?
Pertussis spreads from person to person. People with pertussis usually spread the disease to another person by coughing or sneezing or when spending a lot of time near one another where you share breathing space.
What is the most common cause of death in pertussis?
The most common complication, and the cause of most pertussis-related deaths, is secondary bacterial pneumonia. Young infants are at highest risk for developing pertussis-associated complications.
Who is most at risk for pertussis?
People most at risk At present, the age groups with the most pertussis diagnoses are infants below one year of age, and adolescents between 10 and 20 years of age. All those not vaccinated against pertussis with the recommended number of doses of vaccine are at risk, regardless of age.
Is whooping cough a big deal?
Pertussis can cause serious illness in people of all ages and can even be life-threatening, especially in babies. Approximately half of babies less than 1 year old who get pertussis need treatment in the hospital.
Does wearing a mask protect against pertussis?
Wearing a surgical mask within 3 feet of the patient provides protection from the spread of pertussis. Often times, close household contacts are the source of the child’s infection; therefore, providers should also wear masks when within 3 feet of symptomatic parents or siblings.
Is pneumonia a pertussis?
Pertussis infection increases a person’s risk of developing pneumonia. A person who is getting better from whooping cough may be more at risk of getting another infection. People can have low oxygen levels or pass out during coughing spells.
Can pertussis go away on its own?
Pertussis bacteria die off naturally after three weeks of coughing. If antibiotics are not started within that time, they are no longer recommended. Antibiotics can also be given to close contacts of persons with pertussis to prevent or lessen the symptoms.