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Whooping Cough(Pertussis)

By: Melanie DominguezWhat is Pertussis?Pertussis, or commonly known as whooping cough, is a bacterial respiratory infection that is spread from person to person through the air when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. It causes severe coughing spells that usually end in a whooping sound and lasts about 6 weeks.

Who does it affect?Although anyone can get whooping cough, it affects infants and young children more severely. With immunizations, less and less cases of pertussis are reported.

Signs and SymptomsIn the early stages, it may seem like a common cold:Runny noseSneezingMild coughLow grade fever About 1 to 2 weeks later, the cough develops into dry, coughing spells, which can last for more than a minute and may cause the child to turn red or purple due to a lack of oxygen. The end of the spell is sometimes characterized with a whooping sound when breathing and the child may even vomit. TreatmentIf treated early enough, antibiotics will help make symptoms go away more quickly. If treated too late, it may only stop the spreading of the infection to other people. Infants must be watched more carefully.

An oxygen tent with high humidity may be usedIf coughing makes it difficult to keep hydrated, fluids may be given through a vein Sedatives may be prescribed for young children

*do not use over the counter coughing medicines*

PrognosisThe outcome is usually good for older children and adults that become infected with pertussis. As for infants, they need to be monitored more closely because of the high risk of death from not being able to breathe. EC Professional? As an early childhood professional it is important to:Be vaccinated so you dont spread the infection to your childrenConstantly monitor the health of the students (if you are a teacher) for prevention Take note on any changes of the development of the cough if its originally perceived to be the common coldInform the parents if you suspect the child may have whooping cough and advise seeking medical treatment as soon as possible

References Yamini Durani, Elana Pearl & Ben-Joseph (2012, December). Infections: Whooping Cough (pertussis). Retrieved from http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/whooping_cough.html#

Neil K. Kaneshiro (2011, August 2). Pertusis. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002528/

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