How to Identify Whooping Cough [AUDIO]

Confirmed cases of Pertussis (whooping cough) has risen in recent years, and 2012 has seen a dramatic spike in cases.

Dr. Bill Fredette of A.O. Fox Hospital joined Tracie on WSRK Wednesday morning and brought with him valuable information, including audio for you to tell the difference between a normal cough and that of a child infected with whooping cough.

Whooping cough doesn't just affect children, however. It can affect any person at any age. The reason the focus is on children most is because the condition can be fatal for infants and young children.

The respiratory infection causes uncontrollable coughing, which makes breathing difficult. The whooping sound is caused by the patient gasping for air between coughs. There are around 30,000 cases nationwide this year.

Here's Tracie's interview with Dr. Fredette as well as audio of what you need to look for if you think your child has whooping cough.