Protect your baby

Whooping cough (also known as pertussis) is a respiratory infection that can cause severe coughing or trouble breathing. When babies get it, they are often put in the hospital. And most of them get whooping cough from someone at home, such as a parent, sibling, or grandparent, or from childcare providers.

 

Whooping cough can be prevented. Do it, urges the CDC.

 

Babies and children get a series of five DTaP shots to protect them against diphtheria, tetanus and whopping cough. Babies get the first dose at two months, so until they are fully immunized, you need to keep them safe.

 

Insist that everyone who comes in close contact with your newborn be up-to-date with whooping cough vaccination. Teens and adults need only one dose of Tdap vaccine, which came out in 2005. Tell grandparents they need to get this vaccine, too.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

 

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