Iowa Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Symptoms of Whooping Cough include severe coughing fits, which can make it difficult to breathe, and a characteristic "whoop" sound when inhaling. The infection can cause serious illness in infants, young children, and adults who have not been vaccinated. There are two types of Iowa Pertussis: Classic Pertussis and Atypical Pertussis. Classic Pertussis is the more severe form of the disease, and is characterized by long bouts of coughing, the "whoop" sound and post-coughing vomiting. Atypical Pertussis is usually milder than Classic Pertussis and is characterized by shorter bouts of coughing, fewer post-coughing episodes of vomiting, and a less severe "whoop" sound.