What Causes Whooping Cough in Infants?
Disease description:
My baby has had a cough for a long time, and despite various treatments, there has been no improvement. After visiting the hospital for examination, the doctor diagnosed it as whooping cough. So, what causes whooping cough in infants?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xie Zixing
Whooping cough in infants is primarily an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by infection with *Bordetella pertussis*. It is termed “whooping cough” because the illness may persist for several months. Its hallmark symptom is paroxysmal, spasmodic coughing, often accompanied by a characteristic inspiratory “whoop” resembling a crowing sound. In severe cases, the disease can be fatal.
