Immunization - Preventable Diseases

What is Pertussis?

Pertussis (whooping cough) may be mild or serious and is easily passed from one person to another. Pertussis can cause spells of coughing and choking that make it hard to eat, drink or breathe. The coughing can last for several weeks or months.

Pertussis is most dangerous to babies under 1 year of age. Babies with pertussis are so sick that nearly half must go into the hospital. About one baby out of 100 with the disease either dies or is left with permanent brain injury. Serious illness is less likely in older children and adults.

Last Updated: 5/5/00

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