A member asked:

What is the difference between pertussis and the common cold?

A doctor has provided 1 answer

Pertussis vs URI: Although the initial symptoms of a common cold and pertussis are very similar, their causes are not. Pertussis is caused by a bacterial infection, has three distinct stages, is dangerous in young children, lasts up to weeks and can be prevented with vaccination. Common colds are viral in nature, usually not dangerous, do not respond to antibiotics, and resolve on their own in a few days.

Answered 5/16/2016

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