Understanding Pertussis (Whooping Cough): Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Care
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. Though it’s preventable through vaccination, pertussis remains a significant public health concern, particularly for infants, young children, and vulnerable adults. In this post, we’ll break down what pertussis is, its symptoms, what to watch for, and how it’s treated.
What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough)?
Pertussis is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which infects the lining of the airways, such as the trachea and bronchi. It spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. The infection gets its nickname, “whooping cough,” from the distinctive “whoop” sound that can occur when a person gasps for air after a coughing fit.
The infection primarily affects young children, but anyone can contract pertussis. Infants under six months old are at the greatest risk for severe complications, as their immune systems are still developing, and they may not yet be fully vaccinated.
Symptoms of Pertussis
Pertussis develops in three distinct stages, each with its own set of symptoms.
Stage 1: Catarrhal Stage (1-2 Weeks)
This stage is often mistaken for a mild cold or upper respiratory infection:
• Runny nose
• Mild fever
• Mild cough
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
The infection is most contagious during this early phase, even though the symptoms may seem harmless.
Stage 2: Paroxysmal Stage (1-6 Weeks)
This is the hallmark phase of pertussis, characterized by severe coughing fits:
• Intense, rapid coughing fits that can last for several minutes.
• “Whooping” sound: A high-pitched gasp that follows a coughing fit (this is most common in children but may not be present in adults).
• Vomiting: Due to the force of coughing.
• Cyanosis: Lips or face may turn blue due to lack of oxygen.
Coughing fits tend to worsen at night, disrupting sleep and causing significant fatigue.
Stage 3: Convalescent Stage (2-3 Weeks or Longer)
In this stage, the cough begins to subside but can persist for weeks or months. Known as the “100-day cough,” pertussis can leave patients feeling fatigued and weak even after they’ve stopped being contagious.
What to Watch For
While pertussis can be mild in older children and adults, it can become life-threatening for infants and young children. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if:
• A baby under six months old has a persistent cough or pauses in breathing.
• A child or adult experiences difficulty breathing, blue lips or face, or persistent vomiting after coughing fits.
• Symptoms last more than two weeks and include severe coughing fits, especially if there’s a “whooping” sound.
• There has been recent exposure to someone diagnosed with pertussis, particularly for unvaccinated or high-risk individuals.
How is Pertussis Treated?
Once diagnosed, pertussis is treated with antibiotics to help eliminate the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. Early treatment is critical to limit the severity of the infection and reduce the risk of spreading it to others. Here’s how pertussis is typically managed:
Antibiotics
• For the patient: Antibiotics, such as azithromycin, erythromycin, or clarithromycin, are prescribed to kill the bacteria. Treatment is most effective when started during the early (catarrhal) stage.
• For close contacts: Preventive antibiotics may also be recommended for family members or others exposed to the infected individual, even if they’re not showing symptoms.
Symptom Management
• Rest and hydration: Encourage plenty of fluids and rest to help the body recover.
• Humidified air: Using a humidifier can soothe the airways and help with coughing.
• Avoid irritants: Keep the environment free of smoke, strong odors, or other irritants that can worsen coughing fits.
Hospitalization
In severe cases, particularly for infants, hospitalization may be required. Hospital care may include oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and monitoring to ensure the child’s airways remain clear.
When to Go to Urgent or Primary Care
It’s important to seek medical attention if:
• A child has prolonged coughing fits or appears to struggle to breathe.
• An infant experiences apnea (pauses in breathing) or has blue-tinted lips.
• Symptoms worsen, or you suspect exposure to pertussis.
• Coughing disrupts your ability to eat, sleep, or function normally.
At Vital Care in Battle Ground, WA, we’re here to provide the care you need, whether it’s diagnosing pertussis, prescribing antibiotics, or offering guidance on managing symptoms at home. With same-day appointments available every day from 7 AM to midnight, we’re ready to help when you need us most.
Prevention: The Importance of Vaccination
The best way to protect yourself and your family from pertussis is through vaccination. The DTaP (for children) and Tdap (for adolescents and adults) vaccines provide protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
Key Vaccination Facts:
• Infants and children: The DTaP vaccine is given in a series of five doses, starting at 2 months old.
• Pregnant women: The Tdap vaccine is recommended during each pregnancy to pass antibodies to the baby.
• Adults: A Tdap booster is recommended every 10 years.
According to the CDC, the pertussis vaccine is highly effective, with up to 90% protection after the full vaccination series. While immunity may wane over time, widespread vaccination significantly reduces the severity of the disease and its spread within communities.
Pertussis: A Serious but Preventable Illness
Pertussis is a challenging illness, but early detection, appropriate treatment, and vaccination can make all the difference. If you or a loved one shows symptoms of whooping cough, don’t wait—seek care to get the answers and relief you need.
At Vital Care, we’re dedicated to providing efficient, friendly, and expert healthcare for your family. Whether it’s a primary care visit, urgent care needs, or pediatric care, we’re here for you every day, rain or shine.
To schedule a visit with our providers here at Vital Care just follow the button below. Stay safe, stay protected, and let’s keep those coughs away!
