Learn About Pertussis, Commonly Called Whooping Cough, And How To Protect Your Baby.
Learn about pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, and how to protect your baby.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, can be deadly to babies. According to the National Institute of Health, "Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial disease that causes uncontrollable, violent coughing. The coughing can make it hard to breathe. A deep 'whooping' sound is often heard when the patient tries to take a breath." 
What is pertussis?
Pertussis is a respiratory tract infection that is highly contagious. It is spread through the droplets that are emitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Pertussis usually lasts six weeks.History of pertussis
Pertussis was the leading cause of death in children during the first half of the 20th century. After the creation of the pertussis vaccine, the incidence greatly reduced and hit an all-time low in the '70s. However, more and more whooping cough cases are occurring today. The highest incidence of pertussis is among babies who aren't old enough to have a completed vaccine series and teens, who have less immunity.Risks or pertussis
The NIH lists the following risks:- Pneumonia
- Convulsions
- Seizure disorder (permanent)
- Nose bleeds
- Ear infections
- Brain damage from lack of oxygen
- Bleeding in the brain (cerebral hemorrhage)
- Mental retardation
- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Death
Prevention
The DTaP vaccine helps prevent pertussis. Children are given five pertussis vaccines at the following intervals:- Two months
- Four months
- Six months
- 16 - 18 months
- 4 - 6 years
