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Where can whooping cough be found in the body?
Pertussis is also known as whooping cough. It is a highly infectious bacterial disease involving the respiratory tract. It is caused by a bacterium (Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella Parapertussis ) that is found in the mouth, nose and throat of an infected person.
Where does pertussis live?
What is pertussis? Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, is caused by a bacterium (germ), Bordetella pertussis, that lives in the mouth, nose and throat. The germ is highly contagious and is easily spread from person-to-person.
How long does whooping cough stay in your system?
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a serious, contagious, respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The disease begins like a cold and then the characteristic cough develops. This cough may last up to three months, even after antibiotic treatment is completed and the person is no longer infectious.
How do you know if you carry whooping cough?
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.
What time of year is whooping cough most common?
Although infection can occur throughout the year, be particularly cautious during the summer and fall months when pertussis cases tend to peak. Those who have had an outbreak in their community should be especially vigilant about early symptoms.
What does whooping cough target?
Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as whooping cough, is a very contagious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. These bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system.
Is whooping cough worse at night?
Symptoms usually start about 7 to 10 days after catching whooping cough, with a cold, blocked or runny nose, coughing and a mild fever. The cough gets worse and often happens at night. It might stop you from sleeping. Coughing attacks can be very violent, and some people vomit or faint after coughing.
Can you still carry whooping cough if vaccinated?
People who have been vaccinated against whooping cough can still get the disease — especially if they have not had a booster in the last 10 years. Some people may not know they have whooping cough because they do not have any symptoms or have only mild symptoms. They can still spread the disease to other people.
Who is most vulnerable to whooping cough?
People at greatest risk from whooping cough include: Infants under one year old. Pregnant women (especially in the third trimester). People that have a chronic respiratory illness.