An acute infectious disease, usually of young children, caused by B.Pertussis. Overview of the magnitude of the problem Whooping cough occurs in all countries but a much higher incidence is seen in developing countries. In tropical countries, It is estimated that around 40 million cases are reported every year and about 355000 die each year. Thus the disease carries a significant morbidity and mortality. From statistics that is available in 1995 around 16,000 cases reported in India.
Whooping cough is primarily a disease of infants and preschool children.
A child usually gets the infection from another child who is infected with Pertussis. The bacilli occur abundantly in the naso-pharyngeal and bronchial secretions, which are infective. The organisms are make their way into the atmosphere every time the patient coughs or sneezes. A susceptible child, particularly one who is not immunized can inhale these organisms . Close contact enhances the chances of getting the infection rather than than remote contact.