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. After fits of many coughs, someone with pertussis often needs to take deep breaths which result in a "whooping" sound. Pertussis most commonly affects infants and young children and can be fatal, especially in babies less than 1 year of age.
The best way to protect against pertussis is immunization. English | en Español
New Pertussis Strain
First appearance in the United States of pertussis strains that are missing pertactin.
Would You Know Pertussis?
Hear how the cough may sound
It is important to know that not everyone with pertussis coughs or "whoops".
Print Materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about pertussis? See these answers to pertussis frequently asked questions.
Coughing Up the Facts on Pertussis
Presentation on Emerging Trends and Vaccine Recommendations Updated 11/27/2014
- Page last reviewed: August 28, 2013
- Page last updated: December 1, 2014
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