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NEWS: Boostrix is a new vaccine that provides teens with protection against pertussis.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a serious illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It is much less common now thanks to the vaccine (DTaP) that all children receive as part of their regular immunization schedule. The symptoms of pertussis include a runny nose, fever, decreased appetite, decreased activity and a characteristic chronic cough. Children with pertussis, usually have coughing fits or spells that last up to a minute, and are then followed by a whooping noise as your child tries to catch his breath. Some children may also vomit after the coughing spells.
Pertussis usually begins with cold symptoms, including a mild cough and runny nose that last for a few weeks. The cough will then become worse and your child will begin to have the coughing spells which can occur for another two to six weeks. During this stage of the illness, some children, especially those under one, may need to be hospitalized. It will then take another few months before your child is totally free of the cough.
An antibiotic, usually erythromycin, is a treatment that can shorten the illness if it is started early. It can also decrease how long your child is contagious to others. There are tests that your doctor can perform if your child has pertussis, and it is important to confirm a diagnosis of pertussis, because children with this illness should not be allowed around other children until they have been on antibiotics for at least five days.
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