Health Tip: Does Your Child Have Pertussis?

Some common symptoms of 'whooping cough'

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(HealthDay News) -- Pertussis, commonly called "whooping cough," is a bacterial infection with symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold. In children, bouts of coughing often end with a "whoop" sound.

In young children, coughing spells can lead to dangerous symptoms of vomiting, choking and even unconsciousness.

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The University of Maryland Medical Center says other common signs of pertussis in children may include:

• Symptoms of the common cold, which tend to start about a week after the child is exposed to the bacteria.
• Severe coughing fits, which begin about 10 to 12 days after initial symptoms.
• Diarrhea.
• Low fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
• A runny nose.

-- Diana Kohnle