Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Everything You Need to Know

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a serious respiratory illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It is highly contagious and can lead to severe coughing fits that may cause difficulty breathing, vomiting and exhaustion. Babies, especially those under one year old, are at the greatest risk for severe complications from the disease.

How Is Whooping Cough Spread?

Whooping cough spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacteria can also spread if people are in close contact with each other, like during playdates or family gatherings. The bacteria attach to tiny hair-like structures in the respiratory system and produce toxins that cause swelling in the airways. This leads to the characteristic cough and the “whoop” sound when a person breathes in.

Symptoms

The symptoms of whooping cough generally develop in three stages:

• Early Stage (Catarrhal Stage) - lasts 1-2 weeks
  • Mild cough
  • Runny nose
  • Low-grade fever
• Coughing Fit Stage (Paroxysmal Stage) - lasts 2-4 weeks
  • Severe coughing fits
  • Cough ends with the classic “whooping” sound
  • Difficulty breathing, especially after coughing
• Recovery Stage (Convalescent Stage) - lasts for weeks to months
  • Cough gradually decreases

Some people with whooping cough have mild symptoms and do not develop coughing fits. However, they may still spread the bacteria to others.

Prevention

• Vaccination is the best way to prevent whooping cough.
  • Children should receive the DTaP vaccine series, which protects against pertussis as well as diphtheria and tetanus, beginning at 2 months of age. Additional DTaP doses are given at 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years of age.
  • Preteens should receive the Tdap booster vaccine between 11-12 years of age, which provides continued protection against pertussis, diphtheria, and tetanus.
  • For babies too young to be fully vaccinated, it is especially important for parents, siblings and caregivers to be up to date on their Tdap vaccine.
• Practice good hygiene: make sure your child washes their hands regularly and covers their mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Keep your child away from sick individuals: whooping cough spreads easily. Avoid contact with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness.
• Antibiotics: Some people should receive antibiotics if they have been exposed to someone with whooping cough. If you have been exposed to whooping cough, talk to your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Help

If your child starts coughing persistently, experiences difficulty breathing or if the cough is followed by vomiting or the classic “whooping” noise, seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe complications.