Pertussis is a highly contagious pulmonary disorder caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Worldwide, there are an estimated 24.1 million cases of pertussis, leading to about 160,700 deaths per year. Approximately half of the infants less than a year-old infected with pertussis need treatment in the hospital. Clinically, it is presented as uncontrollable, violent coughing that makes a whooping sound (hence, also called whooping cough).
The disease usually lasts for several weeks and makes breathing difficult. Pertussis most frequently and severely affects young children but can also affect adolescents, adults suffering from pulmonary diseases, and those who are immunocompromised. The condition is diagnosed using a nasopharyngeal culture and PCR. The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination with DTaP for infants and children and with Tdap for preteens, teens,…
