Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a contagious bacterial disease that causes severe coughing that can last up to several months.
Anyone can get whooping cough. However, because most infants get the vaccine, teens and adults are now more likely to get whooping cough, which they can then transmit to others, including younger children and infants.
Symptoms of whooping cough can last between 6 to 10 weeks, and may occur in three stages. Young children may experience all three stages while teens and adults may not. Learn more about the symptoms of whooping cough.
The best way to prevent whooping cough is to get vaccinated or to ensure your vaccination is up-to-date. The Tdap vaccine can prevent whooping cough or reduce the intensity of it. Pregnant women should encourage all those who will be around their baby after birth to receive the vaccine. Pregnant women should speak with their practitioner to determine if it’s right for them to receive while pregnant.
There are different whooping cough vaccines for children, teens, and adults. Learn more about the whooping cough vaccine and which one is right for you and your family.
UW Health physician, Dr. James Conway, a pediatric infectious disease specialist, describes whooping cough and its effect on infants in this short video.
