Bordetella pertussis treatment: what to know

A clinician may assess the cough pattern, breathing, age, pregnancy status, examination findings and contact with vulnerable people. An antibiotic can be more helpful when started early and may reduce spread, but it does not instantly stop an established cough. The choice of medicine and course depends on the person and local clinical guidance.

Coughing can continue while the airways recover. Rest, fluids and avoiding smoke can make this period easier. Babies, pregnant people and those with breathing problems may need closer monitoring.

Take any prescribed medicine exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Stay away from close contact as advised, cover coughs, wash hands and improve ventilation. Offer small, frequent drinks if coughing makes eating difficult. Never give a child another person’s medicine. Ask about [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/) and whether household contacts need assessment or preventive care. Information about [Whooping Cough](/conditions/whooping-cough/) can help you understand the illness.

Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, repeated breathing pauses, collapse or inability to wake normally. Contact a clinician promptly if an infant feeds poorly, has fewer wet nappies, vomits repeatedly after coughing, or becomes unusually sleepy. A worsening [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) or [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) also warrants review, particularly in a young child.

Do we need a test before treatment? When is the person less likely to pass pertussis to others? Should close contacts receive medicine? What warning signs should we monitor overnight? Is the family up to date with [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/)?