Pertussis –
“whooping cough”
Facts and resources
What is pertussis?
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a bacterium. It is especially dangerous for infants, and can even be fatal. The best way to protect your baby from pertussis is to have them immunized. Parents, grandparents and caretakers should also receive the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine. Important information about pertussis can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.