Whooping cough (also known as pertussis or the 100-day cough) is a bacterial infection that gets into the nose and throat and is highly contagious. Initial symptoms are usually similar to those of the common cold with a runny nose, fever, and mild cough, but these are followed by weeks of severe coughing fits. Following a fit of coughing is a high-pitched whoop sound or gasp that may occur as the person breathes in. The coughing may last for 10 or more weeks which is why it is called the 100-day cough. Because the cough is dry and doesn’t produce mucus, the spells can last up to 1 minute and sometimes cause the face to briefly turn red or purple. If you would like to find out more and receive a second opinion regarding your diagnosis and treatment with a doctor online, please contact us at SecondOpinions.com, for your peace of mind.