Description

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can lead to difficulty breathing, vomiting, and exhaustion.

Interpreter Notes

Interpreters may encounter variations such as 'tos convulsiva' or 'tos de los 100 días', but it is essential to use 'tos ferina' in clinical contexts. Be cautious about the register, as this term should always be presented in a formal medical context.

Example Sentences

EN: The patient was diagnosed with pertussis after experiencing severe coughing fits.

ES: El paciente fue diagnosticado con tos ferina después de experimentar episodios severos de tos.

Common Interpreter Mistakes

Confusing 'pertussis' with 'bronquitis'; mispronouncing 'tos ferina' as 'tos ferina'; using informal terms instead of the clinical term.