Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a serious respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It is highly contagious and poses significant risks, particularly for infants and young children. Here’s what parents should know about this condition, including how to recognize, prevent, and treat it.

Symptoms of Whooping Cough

Whooping cough symptoms usually appear in stages:

1. Early Stage (Catarrhal Stage, 1-2 weeks):
   • Runny nose
   • Mild fever
   • Occasional, mild cough
   • Fatigue
     These early symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold.
2. Paroxysmal Stage (1-6 weeks or longer):
   • Severe coughing fits, often followed by a “whooping” sound when inhaling
   • Vomiting after coughing episodes
   • Exhaustion due to frequent and intense coughing
3. Recovery Stage (Convalescent Stage, weeks to months):
   • Gradual reduction in coughing
   • Lingering cough may persist, especially after physical activity or when exposed to irritants.

Infants may not display the characteristic “whoop” but are at high risk for severe complications, including apnea (pauses in breathing).

How Whooping Cough Spreads

Pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It is highly contagious, especially during the early stages before the severe coughing begins.

Prevention of Whooping Cough

The best defense against whooping cough is vaccination.

1. DTaP Vaccine:
   • Administered in five doses to children at 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years.
2. Tdap Vaccine:
   • Recommended for preteens (11-12 years) and adults, including pregnant women during their third trimester, to protect newborns.
3. Boosters for Adults:
   • Adults, especially those in close contact with infants, should receive a Tdap booster if they haven’t already.
4. Good Hygiene Practices:
   • Teach children to wash their hands frequently, cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with sick individuals.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact your healthcare provider if your child:

• Experiences prolonged coughing fits
• Struggles to breathe or shows signs of apnea
• Vomits frequently after coughing
• Has bluish skin, especially around the mouth

Treatment for Whooping Cough

Early diagnosis is essential. A healthcare provider may perform a nasal swab test to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically includes:

• Antibiotics: To reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent spreading the infection.
• Supportive Care:
  • Ensure your child stays hydrated.
  • Encourage rest to support recovery.
  • Use a humidifier to ease breathing during coughing fits.
• Hospitalization: Severe cases, particularly in infants, may require hospital care for oxygen support and close monitoring.

Potential Complications

Whooping cough can lead to serious complications, especially in infants and young children, including:

• Pneumonia
• Seizures
• Brain damage due to oxygen deprivation
• Death in severe cases

Conclusion

Whooping cough is preventable with proper vaccination and vigilance. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt medical care can protect your child from serious complications. At Child & Teen Medical Center, we’re dedicated to your family’s health. Contact us today: whether your child is ill or needs a vaccination, we often have same day visits available.

Together, we can ensure your children stay safe and healthy.