Micro-landscape view of respiratory cells, an accumulating layer of mucus, and Bordetella pertussis bacteria releasing toxins.

A coughing event is occurring here, displacing mucus, the bacteria, and debris.

Also known as whooping cough, pertussis is a highly contagious airborne disease that spreads simply through the coughs and sneezes of an infected person.

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Tagged: biology, bordetella pertussis bacteria, hybrid medical, microbiology, mucus, respiratory cells, science visuals, scientific animation, whooping cough