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Also known as: 100-Day Cough, Violent Coughing Fits Disease, Whooping Bark Cough, Childhood Whoop Cough, Severe Spasmodic Cough Illness, Convulsive Cough Disease
Last Updated: October 31, 2026
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a very contagious infection that affects the lungs and breathing tubes. It spreads easily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While anyone can get whooping cough, it poses a significant risk to babies and pregnant individuals. The infection starts like a common cold, but after about a week, it develops into severe coughing fits. These fits can make it hard to breathe and may cause a characteristic "whooping" sound. The cough can last for weeks or even months. Treatment often involves antibiotics if caught early, which helps stop the spread. Hospital care may be necessary for severe cases, especially in young infants. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough and protect vulnerable populations.
Explore our range of treatment options for Whooping Cough:
Affects
Lungs and breathing tubes
Prevalence
Highly contagious
Diagnosis
Clinical symptoms
Treatment
Antibiotics, supportive care
Consult with our healthcare professionals to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.