Whooping Cough (Pertussis): Symptoms & Treatment
A clear guide to whooping cough, the contagious respiratory infection, covering warning signs, diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment usually begins with
Clinical Assessment
Symptom Monitoring
Antibiotic Therapy
Follow-up Care
Early antibiotic treatment reduces how contagious the illness is and can ease its course.
You may need this evaluated if...
An evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Severe, prolonged coughing fits
- A 'whooping' sound when breathing in after coughing
- Vomiting after coughing episodes
- Difficulty breathing in young infants
Prompt diagnosis and treatment help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
What is Whooping Cough (Pertussis)?
Whooping cough is a contagious bacterial infection of the airways causing severe coughing fits, and can be especially serious in young infants.
Highly Contagious
Spreads easily through coughing and close contact.
Vaccine-Preventable
Routine immunisation significantly reduces risk and severity.
Distinct Cough Pattern
Severe coughing fits are often followed by a characteristic whoop.
More Serious in Infants
Young babies need closer monitoring due to breathing risk.
Common Symptoms
- Severe, prolonged coughing fits
- A whooping sound after coughing
- Vomiting after coughing
- Fatigue between coughing episodes
- Breathing difficulty in infants
What Increases the Risk
A combination of medical, developmental and environmental factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
1. Clinical assessment
Reviewing the cough pattern and vaccination history.
2. Laboratory test
A swab test confirms the specific bacterial infection.
3. Monitoring for infants
Closer observation for breathing difficulty in young babies.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Antibiotic Therapy
- Supportive Care for Coughing Fits
- Close Monitoring in Young Infants
- Fluid & Nutrition Support
Surgical Care
Surgery is not a treatment for whooping cough, which is managed with antibiotics and supportive care.
Treatment decisions are based on the child's symptoms, growth, timing and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Your child has a mild, early cough
- You want vaccination guidance for household members
- You want a follow-up on antibiotic treatment
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- An infant shows breathing difficulty or pauses in breathing
- Coughing fits are followed by turning blue or gasping
- Your child becomes unusually lethargic
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right pediatrician.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your child's condition to the right specialist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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