Whooping cough (pertussis) is a very contagious respiratory disease because of the bacteriaBordetella pertussis.
When this bacteria infects the linings of the lungs, it causes significant inflammation and swollen airways.
The result is intense, uncontrollable coughing.
At times, medical tests are needed to confirm diagnosis.
(DTaP vaccines prevent against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.)
She is board-certified in both internal medicine and infectious diseases.
She also teaches medical trainees and lectures medical students at the Emory University School of Medicine.
Holly Pevzner is a writer who specializes in health, nutrition, parenting, and pregnancy.
She is currently a staff writer at Happiest Baby.
Pevzner has written several monthly health columns, including forFirst for WomenandPreventionmagazines.
She previously held senior staff positions atPrevention,Fitness, andSelfmagazines, covering medical health and psychology.
She was also a contributing editor at Scholastic’sParent & Childmagazine.
What Is a Cough?
