Per CDC:
Whooping cough is a respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The disease is only found in humans.
Whooping cough bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system. The bacteria release toxins (poisons), which damage the cilia and cause airways to swell.
Key points
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a very contagious respiratory illness.
Whooping cough may begin like a common cold, but unlike a cold, the coughing can last for weeks or months.
Treating whooping cough early with antibiotics may make the infection less serious.
Prevention
CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for everyone.
Vaccination
The best way to prevent whooping cough is to get vaccinated. CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for everyone.
Antibiotics
Preventive antibiotics are also known as postexposure antimicrobial prophylaxis (PEP). These are medicines given to someone who has been exposed to harmful bacteria to help prevent them from getting sick. Some people should receive antibiotics to prevent them from getting sick if they have been around someone with whooping cough.
If you've been exposed to someone with whooping cough, talk to a healthcare provider about preventive antibiotics. A healthcare provider or health department generally decides who should get preventive antibiotics.
Good hygiene
CDC recommends practicing good hygiene to help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that can cause many respiratory illnesses.
Re-infection
People who've had whooping cough have some immunity to future whooping cough infections. However, getting sick with whooping cough doesn't provide lifelong protection.
To learn more visit: About Whooping Cough | Whooping Cough | CDC
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