Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
Symptoms
Catarrhal Stage (1-2 weeks):Symptoms resemble a common cold, including runny nose, mild cough, sneezing, and low-grade fever.
Paroxysmal Stage (2-6 weeks):This stage is marked by severe coughing fits (paroxysms) that can last for several minutes. These fits often occur in rapid succession, followed by a high-pitched “whoop” as the person struggles to breathe in.
The coughing can be intense enough to cause vomiting or exhaustion.
Convalescent Stage (weeks to months):
The coughing gradually decreases, but it can take weeks to months for the person to fully recover.
Risk Factors
Infants and young children are at the greatest risk of severe illness, including complications like pneumonia, seizures, or brain damage.
Transmission
Pertussis is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
