Is pertussis a reemerging disease?
Is pertussis a reemerging disease?
pertussis. The incidence of pertussis has been greatly reduced by mass vaccination; however, even in countries with high vaccination coverage, the disease is reemerging (1-4).
What disease does Bordetella pertussis cause?
Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as whooping cough, is a very contagious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. These bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system.
Is whooping cough a childhood disease?
Before the vaccine was developed, whooping cough was considered a childhood disease. Now whooping cough primarily affects children too young to have completed the full course of vaccinations and teenagers and adults whose immunity has faded.
Is pertussis a respiratory infection?
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis is known for uncontrollable, violent coughing which often makes it hard to breathe.
Is pertussis making a comeback?
Whooping cough, a potentially life-threatening childhood illness, all but disappeared in the 1940s after a vaccine was developed. But in recent decades, the illness has been making a comeback. Changes in the vaccine and waning immunity are likely contributing to the resurgence of the illness, according to experts.
Why is whooping cough on the rise?
King and his colleagues concluded that the return of whooping cough has roots in the mid-20th century. It’s due to natural population turnover, incomplete vaccination coverage, and gradually weakening protection from a highly effective but imperfect vaccine, they said.
How do you know if your infant has whooping cough?
Signs and symptoms
- Cough gets worse and comes in severe fits.
- Cough is dry and harsh.
- Cough ends with a whoop sound on inspiration.
- Newborns and young infants do not have the strength to develop a “whoop” sound and may have a hard time breathing.
- Child may vomit with the coughing and appear to be strangling on the vomit.
Does pertussis affect lungs?
In one study, less than 1 out of 20 (5%) teens and adults with pertussis needed care in the hospital. Healthcare professionals diagnosed pneumonia (lung infection) in 1 out of 50 (2%) of those patients. The most common complications in another study were: Weight loss in 1 out of 3 (33%) adults.