Pertusis
A. Causes of Pertusis
A bacteria called Bordetella Pertusis causes pertusis or whooping cough. The bacteria attaches to the cilia in the upper respiratory system. The bacteria then releases toxins damaging the cilia and causing inflammation.
B. Transmition of Pertusis
Pertusis is highly contagious. It is spread from human to human. The most common form of transmission is by coughing or sneezing when near someone that is infected with the bacteria. The other person then breathes in and is infected by the bacteria.
C. Symptoms
The symptoms of pertusis usually develop seven to ten days after being exposed to the bacteria. Although they may not appear until after six weeks after being exposed. The symptoms of pertusis may include runny nose, slight fever, and diarrhea.
D. Pertusis treatments
One of the treatments for pertusis is a oxygen tent with high humidity. Infants with severe cases should be hospitalized. Fluids may be given through the vein if the couhing is severe enough to prevent person to drink fluids. Antibiotics may stop the symptoms of pertusis if detected early enough. And the medicines can lowwer the chance of the person to spread the bacteria.