Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious bacterial infection, only found in humans. Whooping cough is spread through the air, by coughing, sneezing, or spending a lot of time near one another where breathing space is shared. Whooping cough primarily affects the respiratory system (the organs that help you breathe).
Many babies who get pertussis are infected by older siblings, parents, or caregivers who may not know they have the disease. Please make sure that you and your family are properly vaccinated with pertussis vaccines. A pertussis (Tdap) shot is recommended for all who are not up to date. The vaccine reduces the chance that a person will become sick with pertussis. Getting pertussis does not prevent one from getting it again in the future.