What is a common symptom of pertussis?

A common symptom of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is characterized by coughing spells that lead to a distinctive whooping sound when the individual tries to inhale after a fit of coughing. This sound is a result of the spasmodic nature of the cough and is a hallmark sign of the infection. The whooping cough occurs in paroxysms, which means it comes in fits, and can be particularly severe and prolonged, often leading to vomiting or exhaustion after the episodes.

This symptom is crucial for identification and diagnosis because it differentiates whooping cough from other respiratory illnesses that might present with coughing but not necessarily the characteristic "whoop." Recognizing this symptom can be vital for timely intervention, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants. Other symptoms of pertussis may include a runny nose, mild fever, and nasal congestion, but the "whooping" cough is the most memorable and defining trait of this infectious disease.