What to know about Whooping Cough
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It's characterized by severe coughing fits that can make it difficult to breathe. The "whooping" sound occurs when trying to breathe in after a coughing fit. While it can affect people of all ages, it's particularly dangerous for infants and young children.
Whooping Cough in 15 seconds
Why is whooping cough dangerous?
Whooping cough can be life-threatening, especially for infants and young children. The severe coughing can lead to serious complications and even death in vulnerable populations.
- Babies under 6 months old are at highest risk of severe complications and death from whooping cough.
- The coughing fits can be so severe that they cause vomiting, broken ribs, or loss of consciousness.
- The infection can last for weeks or even months, leading to exhaustion and other health problems.
- Whooping cough is highly contagious and can spread easily through coughing and sneezing, especially in close contact settings like schools and daycares.
How can I protect my family?
The best protection against whooping cough is vaccination. The DTaP vaccine protects children, while the Tdap vaccine is recommended for teens and adults.
Pregnant women should get the Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their newborns. Keep babies away from anyone who is coughing, and make sure all family members and caregivers are up to date on their vaccinations.
Learn more
Find more information about whooping cough and how to keep your family safe.
Minnesota Department of Health: Pertussis: What Parents Need to Know
Learn more about whooping cough in Minnesota, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
CDC: Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Comprehensive information about whooping cough, including vaccination schedules and outbreak information.
HealthyChildren.org: Whooping Cough
Information for parents about whooping cough symptoms, treatment, and prevention in children.