What should you know about catarrhal stage of pertussis?

Pertussis, also called whooping cough, often begins with a blocked or runny nose, mild fever, tiredness, and a small cough. The cough can become more frequent and forceful as the illness progresses. A whoop may be absent, particularly in babies, vaccinated people, and adults. Infants may instead have pauses in breathing, colour changes, poor feeding, or unusual exhaustion. Because the early symptoms resemble a common cold, the person may spread infection before pertussis is recognised.

Arrange medical advice promptly if pertussis is possible, particularly when the person is a baby or has been near a newborn. Phone before attending so the clinic can reduce exposure to others. Keep the person resting and offer fluids in small amounts if coughing makes drinking difficult. Do not share utensils or close personal items, and follow advice about staying away from school, work, childcare, and vulnerable household members. Antibiotic treatment may reduce spread when started at the right time, but it should be prescribed after clinical assessment.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, repeated pauses in breathing, collapse, or inability to wake normally. Seek urgent assessment for poor feeding, dehydration, repeated vomiting after coughing, or a baby with a new cough. A cough that causes marked exhaustion or breathing trouble also needs prompt review.

Ask whether testing or antibiotic treatment is appropriate, how long the person should avoid close contact, and which household contacts need advice. Share the cough’s starting date, any exposure to pertussis, breathing changes, and immunisation history.