What disease is also known as whooping cough?

The disease also known as whooping cough is pertussis.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The name “whooping cough” comes from the sharp intake of breath that may follow repeated coughing fits, producing a whooping sound. That sound is common in children but may be absent in infants, vaccinated people, and adults.

The illness often begins with cold-like symptoms before progressing to severe bouts of coughing. These fits can last for weeks and may cause vomiting, exhaustion, or breathing problems. Pertussis is particularly dangerous for babies, who may have pauses in breathing instead of a noticeable whoop.

French researchers Jules Bordet and Octave Gengou identified the causative bacterium in 1906. Vaccination remains the main preventive measure: DTaP is used during childhood, while Tdap is used for older children, adolescents, and adults. Measles, tetanus, and diphtheria are separate infections.