Bordetella pertussis, also known as the “100-day cough,” is viewed as a contagious respiratory disease. It is said to spread through close contact and is especially dangerous for infants and young children. Runny nose, low fever, and cough are early symptoms. Treatment includes antibiotics and DTaP and Tdap vaccines for infants and adolescents and adults.
It’s not uncommon to hear rumors of a persistent, hacking cough causing havoc. In some regions, pertussis, the “100-day cough,” is rising, making headlines. What is this lingering illness, and how can we protect ourselves? Let’s discuss pertussis’ symptoms, causes, and treatments.
What is 100-day cough?
Pertussis, also known as 100-day cough, is viewed as a contagious respiratory disease caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is said to spread through coughing, sneezing, and talking. Pertussis can affect anyone, but infants and young children, whose immune systems are still developing, are particularly vulnerable.
PertussisL: Signs and symptoms
Early symptoms (1-2 weeks): runny or stuffy nose, low-grade fever, mild cough (babies may not cough but may have apnea or cyanosis). These symptoms can mimic a cold, making early diagnosis difficult.
Later symptoms (2-10 weeks): Wild coughing fits, worse at night. These fits may end with a high-pitched ‘whoop’ as the person inhales. Vomiting, fatigue, and breathing problems can occur.
Pertussis: Causes
Pertussis is caused by Bordetella pertussis. A cough, sneeze, or talk by an infected person spreads it easily. Close contact with an infected person greatly increases pertussis risk.
Treatment:
Early detection and treatment of pertussis reduce symptoms and prevent spread. People with pertussis are often given antibiotics like azithromycin or erythromycin. These drugs can shorten symptoms and reduce infection spread.
Prevention:
The best method of preventing pertussis is through vaccination. Infants and young children receive the DTaP vaccine to prevent pertussis and its complications. Teens and adults should also get Tdap to boost immunity.
Conclusion
Pertussis, also known as the “100-day cough,” is viewed as a contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. Close contact, coughing, sneezing, is said to spread it, making infants and young children with weakened immune systems especially vulnerable. Many people mistake a runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild cough for a cold. To reduce symptoms and stop the infection, early detection and treatment are essential. To treat symptoms and spread, azithromycin and erythromycin are often prescribed. Prevention is best achieved through vaccination, with DTaP for infants and young children and Tdap boosters for adolescents and adults.
