Whooping cough (pertussis) is a bacterial infection of the airways that causes long fits of coughing, often followed by a whooping sound or vomiting. It spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. It is most dangerous for babies under 6 months, who can stop breathing. The cough can last for weeks or months. Vaccination in the routine childhood programme protects children.
Symptoms
At first: runny nose, mild fever and a mild cough, like a cold
After 1 to 2 weeks: long fits of strong coughing, worse at night
A whooping sound when breathing in after a coughing fit
Vomiting after coughing
The face may turn red or blue during a fit
Babies may not cough but stop breathing or turn blue
Causes
Bordetella pertussis bacteria
Droplets from coughing and sneezing
Babies often catch it from older children or adults with a long cough
Not being vaccinated or missing doses
Prevention
Pentavalent vaccine at 6, 10 and 14 weeks, as in the routine childhood schedule
Keep babies away from anyone with a cough
People with a long cough should cover their mouth and wash their hands
Close contacts of a sick person, especially in homes with a baby, may need preventive antibiotics from a doctor
Treatment
Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, which work best early and reduce spread
Babies under 6 months usually need hospital care
Small, frequent feeds and plenty of fluids, especially after vomiting
Rest in a smoke-free room
Cough medicines do not help whooping cough and should not be given to young children
Do not start antibiotics or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Why is whooping cough so dangerous for babies?
Young babies have small airways and are too young to be fully vaccinated. They may not cough at all but instead stop breathing. Any baby with a cough or breathing pauses must be seen urgently.
How long does the cough last?
The cough can last 6 to 10 weeks or longer, even after antibiotics. Antibiotics stop the spread to others but may not shorten the cough once it is established.
