Beginner’s Guide to Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that’s making a resurgence in the U.S. Recent preliminary data shows that more than five times as many cases of whooping cough have been reported in early November, compared to the same time in 2023. While whooping cough is often associated with infants, it is important to clarify that the illness can also infect both children and adults. Read on to learn more about what whooping cough is, how it spreads and the best ways to protect your family during the cold weather season.

What Is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis, which infects the respiratory tract. Whooping cough starts off with mild symptoms akin to the common cold, but within a few weeks, it can develop into intense coughing fits. These fits can make it hard to breathe, and in more severe cases, they can cause a “whoop