What causes whooping cough?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is specifically caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The term "pertussis" directly refers to the condition known as whooping cough, which is characterized by severe coughing fits that may be followed by a high-pitched "whoop" sound during inhalation. This is why identifying the correct cause of the disease as pertussis is crucial; it indicates an understanding of the specific pathogen responsible for the illness.

In contrast, other options represent different pathogens or types of infections. For example, a viral infection may involve various viruses causing other respiratory illnesses but not pertussis specifically. Rhinovirus is known for causing the common cold rather than whooping cough. Streptococcus typically refers to a group of bacteria known for various infections, including streptococcal throat infections, but it is not responsible for whooping cough. Recognizing the unique relationship between Bordetella pertussis and the symptoms of whooping cough helps in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease effectively.