Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease that affects the nasal pathway of your child. This is a serious disease that can cause babies to stop breathing. A person suffering from whooping cough usually spreads this disease by coughing and sneezing while in close contact with others, who then contract the disease as well. 

Now that vaccinations have been introduced, whooping cough affects only babies who have not yet completed the full course of the vaccinations or have very low immune system. Ideally, a pregnant woman should get vaccinated in her third trimester so that her baby does not contract the disease after birth.​

When to seek expert advise

Ideally your child should undergo a course of vaccinations after birth. However, babies can contract this disease before the course completes. If you see any of the above symptoms in your child, visit the Department of Paediatrics at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.