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Which bacteria are responsible for causing the disease known as 'whooping cough'?

  • A. Bordetella pertussis
  • B. Haemophilus influenzae
  • C. Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • D. Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bordetella pertussis. Bordetella pertussis is the bacterium responsible for causing whooping cough, also known as pertussis. It produces toxins that damage the respiratory tract, leading to severe coughing fits. Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are not associated with whooping cough. Haemophilus influenzae can cause respiratory infections but not whooping cough. Streptococcus pneumoniae is known for causing pneumonia, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes tuberculosis, both different from whooping cough. Therefore, the correct answer is A as it is the specific bacterium linked to the disease in question.