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Whooping Cough Directory
Whooping cough is a very contagious respiratory infection disease caused by Bordetella pertussis bacteria. The disease usually starts with cold symptoms but then leads to severe coughing spells, which can last for many weeks or even months. It is called whooping cough because most people makes a "whoop" sound when trying to take a breath after coughing; this is due to all the air being forced out of the lungs. Whooping cough can lead to serious illness and death. It is especially severe among young babies. A vaccine can help prevent whooping cough. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how whooping cough is contracted, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Preventing Tetanus
From symptoms to treatment to prevention, get the basics on tetanus from the experts at WebMD.
Vaccines for Preteens and Teens
Find out what vaccinations are recommended for your preteen and teenager..
Catchy Infections: How Not to Get Sick
There’s a bug going around, but don’t let it get you. Learn how to steer clear of catchy infections.
Whooping Cough Vaccines Are Not Just for Kids
Whooping cough doesn't affect only children. Learn more about whooping cough and a vaccine to prevent it.
Features
The Dangers of Whooping Cough
A guide to whooping cough, or pertussis: its symptoms, danger signs, prevention, and treatment.
How Moms Prevent Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Whooping cough is highly contagious. If one person has pertussis, up to 90% of people in the same house will get it. Here’s what careful moms do.
Whooping Cough: Treatment and Prevention
WebMD asks CDC expert Tom Clark about whooping cough and its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Why Whooping Cough Is Rising Despite a New Vaccine
A look at why whooping cough rates are rising despite a new vaccine.