ASK THE CPCMG PEDIATRICIAN: What is whooping cough?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. Despite the availability of vaccines, cases still occur and can lead to serious complications, especially for infants (who are too young to be fully vaccinated). Understanding the symptoms, how it spreads, and the importance of timely vaccination is key to protecting your family’s health.

What are the symptoms of pertussis infection?
Pertussis is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. It starts as a mild respiratory illness, much like a cold and may include a runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, and low-grade fever. These mild respiratory symptoms then progress and patients develop severe coughing fits (these are called paroxysms). When an infected person inhales air after a coughing fit, there is often a “whooping” sound. Sometimes a person may vomit following a coughing fit. Overall, the coughing fits are exhausting for the infected person.

How does pertussis spread?
Pertussis is highly contagious and occurs when a susceptible person inhales respiratory droplets from an infected person. The typical incubation period of pertussis is seven to ten days, meaning that someone infected with pertussis can begin showing symptoms seven to days later.

How is pertussis diagnosed?
Pertussis is diagnosed using a nasal swab that is sent to the lab. It can take up to two days to get the results. Your doctor may recommend testing for pertussis based on your child’s symptoms.

How is pertussis infection treated?
Antibiotics are prescribed to treat pertussis. People with pertussis are contagious from the onset of cold-like symptoms for 21 days after the cough starts. With antibiotic treatment, the contagious period is reduced to about five days after starting the medication.

How long does a pertussis infection last?
Classic pertussis can last for six to ten weeks, but some patients may experience three months of a cough. Symptoms gradually wane over weeks to months.

How can pertussis be prevented?
Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable illness. The pertussis vaccine is given at regular intervals in children and recommended every ten years for adults and during pregnancy.

If you have any questions about whooping cough, or are concerned about your child, please reach out to your CPCMG pediatrician.