What is whooping cough?
A person with whooping cough has inflammation of the upper airway, due to an infection of the upper airway by the bacteria, Bordetella pertussis. Routine vaccination has made this infection rare in the US, where only about 4,500 cases of whooping cough are reported each year.

What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
Symptoms of whooping cough include runny nose, cough, fever, and eye redness. Worsening symptoms of whooping cough include a severe cough, vomiting and difficulty breathing.

How does the doctor treat whooping cough?
Treatment for whooping cough may include antibiotics, and acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for fever. Additional treatment for severe whooping cough may include bronchodilator medications and oxygen therapy.