Which disease is described as whooping cough?

• A. Anaphylaxis
• B. Pertussis
• C. COPD
• D. Dementia

Answer: (B)

Whooping cough refers to pertussis, a contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. The hallmark is severe, repetitive coughing spells that often end with a high-pitched inhalation, or "whoop," especially in children. This distinctive sound and pattern of coughing helps distinguish pertussis from other conditions. The other listed diseases don’t match the description: anaphylaxis is a rapid allergic reaction with airway swelling and shock, COPD is a chronic lung disease causing long-term breathlessness, and dementia is progressive cognitive decline. Recognizing pertussis is important because it’s highly contagious and can be treated with antibiotics if started early, reducing transmission and duration of symptoms. Vaccination helps prevent it.