(HealthDay News) -- Pertussis, commonly called "whooping cough," is a bacterial infection with symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold. In children, bouts of coughing often end with a "whoop" sound.
In young children, coughing spells can lead to dangerous symptoms of vomiting, choking and even unconsciousness.
The University of Maryland Medical Center says other common signs of pertussis in children may include: