PERTUSSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis is characterized by severe and prolonged coughing fits that are often accompanied by a high-pitched "whoop" sound when the person affected tries to take a breath.
The infection spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It primarily affects infants, young children, and those who have not been immunized or have incomplete immunization against the disease. Pertussis is particularly dangerous for newborns who have not yet received the full vaccination schedule, as they are more susceptible to severe complications and fatalities.
The symptoms of pertussis typically progress through three stages: the catarrhal stage, the paroxysmal stage, and the convalescent stage. In the catarrhal stage, the infected person experiences mild, cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, low-grade fever, and a mild cough. As the infection progresses, it enters the paroxysmal stage where the characteristic coughing fits occur. During this stage, the person may have difficulty catching their breath and might experience vomiting, exhaustion, or even cyanosis (a bluish coloration of the skin). The convalescent stage signifies the gradual recovery of the person, where the coughing becomes less frequent and severe.
The treatment of pertussis often involves antibiotics to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Additionally, supportive care such as ensuring proper hydration and rest is crucial for the patient's recovery. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against pertussis. A combination vaccine called the DTap/DTaP vaccine is administered to infants and young children in
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of PERTUSSIS
The word pertussis comes from the Latin term pertussis which means violent cough. The Latin word itself has its origins in the combination of two words: per, meaning through or intensely, and tussis, meaning cough.
Similar spelling word for PERTUSSIS
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