Whopping cough is a serious, contagious, bacterial infection of
the bronchial tubes and lungs. The incidence of whooping cough
has greatly decreased in the world due to immunization. It is
most common in children. Causes of Whooping Cough Cause is due
to infection with Bordetella pertussis bacteria. The disease is
transmitted by direct contact with a contagious person. It is
also spread by indirect contact, such as breathing air or
handling contaminated articles. The incubation period is 5 to 7
days. Signs and Symptoms of Whooping Cough Symptoms of early
stages include runny nose, dry cough that progresses to a cough
with thick sputum, and slight fever. Symptoms of later stages
include severe, continual coughing bouts that last up to 1
minute. The face turns red or blue from lack of oxygen while
coughing. At the end of each coughing effort, the child gasps
for breath with a whooping sound. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
and fever also occur. Find more information Medical Content Last
Updated on 07/12/2008 The in