Pertussis: Whooping Cough Virus

According to the CDC, “approximately half of the babies less than one year old who get pertussis need treatment in the hospital” (Fast Facts). The pertussis vaccine, discovered in 1906 was developed by Bordet and Gengou. It is a common virus that is more well known for affecting babies. The virus also known as “Whooping Cough” for the sound the host makes while trying to catch their breath. A single person with, “pertussis can infect up to 12 to 15 other people” (Pertussis F.A.Q). Pertussis(Whooping Cough) is an easily transmitted virus, its vaccine has been developed, and Pertussis seems to be a near to nothing problem in the future. To begin with pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough is, “a very contagious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella Pertussis” (Causes and Transmissions). It’s a common disease in the United States, it has reported peaks every 3 to 5 years and has frequent outbreaks. Pertussis easily passes from person to person due to the fact that it is capable of becoming airborne. If someone is near enough to a person with the virus, it can transfer, “by coughing or sneezing or spending a lot of time near [another person]” (Transmissions).

However the real victims in danger are infants, “who are typically hospitalized [due to the fact that] whooping cough is more dangerous in that age group” (Treatments and Drugs). Some cures or home remedies would be to get plenty of sleep, and drink plenty of liquids. One way of preventing viruses is by, “practicing good hygiene to prevent the spread of [a] respiratory illness” (Prevention). Other ways of preventing pertussis are by getting vaccinated. There are many types of vaccines for pertussis, “in the U.S. DTap, Tdap and Td vaccines are most commonly used” (Vaccine Information). It is highly recommended to get a booster shot after the age of 11 to reinforce the