What You Should Know About Whooping Cough

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by Bordetella pertussis. The illness starts with mild symptoms that can escalate to severe coughing with a "whoop" sound. Without treatment, individuals remain contagious for up to 3 weeks. Antibiotics can shorten the infectious period to about 5 days.

Family and Infant Risks

• Anyone can contract the infection, especially those who are unvaccinated or haven't received a timely booster dose.
• Infants younger than one year are at an increased risk for hospitalization and severe complications.
• In some cases, babies might display symptoms such as vomiting, difficulty breathing, or blue-tinged skin instead of a typical cough.

What to Do About Whooping Cough

• Complete a virtual visit with a healthcare provider if you or your child has pertussis symptoms:
  • Early: runny/stuffy nose, mild cough, low fever, apnea in babies
  • Later: severe coughing fits, “whoop” sound, vomiting, exhaustion
• Keep sick individuals at home and contact a healthcare provider about testing or treatment.
• Inquire about post-exposure antibiotics (PEP) for high-risk groups, including infants, people with compromised immune systems, pregnant women in their third trimester and close contacts.

Who Should Get Vaccinated and When

• Children: Five-dose DTaP series (2, 4, 6, 15–18 months, 4–6 years)
• Adolescents/adults: One Tdap booster (11–12 years)
• Pregnant individuals: Tdap during weeks 27–36 each pregnancy

Do Vaccines Work Effectively

The Tdap vaccine protects against pertussis for 1–3 years, with immunity dropping noticeably after 5 years. Since immunity is short-lived, booster doses are advised.

Are Children Who Stay Home Still at Risk

Children at home remain vulnerable to pertussis because it spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 90% of unvaccinated household contacts will get infected if exposed. Kids can be at risk from parents, visitors or caregivers who carry the bacteria.

How to Prevent Whooping Cough

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough, as recommended by the CDC. The bacteria that cause whooping cough spread easily from person to person through the air. When a person with whooping cough sneezes or coughs, they release small particles containing bacteria. Others can then inhale the bacteria.

To limit transmission, cover your mouth when coughing, wash your hands frequently, avoid sharing items and stay home when you are ill. People with pertussis are typically contagious from the start of coughing for up to 2-3 weeks. Early antibiotics can reduce how long patients are contagious.