Bordetella pertussis in adults: symptoms and care

Adults may have a runny nose, tiredness, and little or no [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) before coughing bouts appear. The cough can be worse at night, cause gagging or vomiting, and leave the ribs or abdominal muscles sore. Some adults do not make a whooping sound, so its absence does not exclude pertussis.

An adult with pertussis can spread the infection to a baby or another vulnerable person, sometimes before recognising the pattern. A prolonged cough after close exposure deserves clinical advice.

Contact a clinician promptly if coughing attacks are severe, persistent, or linked to a known exposure. Mention pregnancy, asthma or other lung disease, medicines, allergies, and anyone vulnerable at home. Cover coughs, wash hands, ventilate rooms, and limit close contact until you receive specific advice.

Take prescribed medicine as directed. Antibiotics may reduce onward spread but may not quickly remove the cough. Learn more about [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/) and [Whooping Cough](/conditions/whooping-cough/).

Seek emergency help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, chest pain with breathing difficulty, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt review for dehydration, repeated vomiting, or a [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) that is rapidly worsening.

Ask whether you need a respiratory test, when you can return to close-contact activities, whether household members need preventive advice, and which symptoms mean you should seek urgent care.