What should you know about control of whooping cough?

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a bacterial infection of the airways. It may begin like a mild cold, then develop into repeated coughing bouts, vomiting after coughing or a high-pitched intake of breath. A cough is a common presentation of whooping cough, but a cough alone does not establish the cause. Infants may have pauses in breathing rather than a classic whoop.

The infection spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. Antibiotic treatment may reduce transmission when started at the right stage and is prescribed according to the person’s age, health and exposure. The cough can continue after the bacteria are controlled because irritated airways need time to recover.

Arrange medical review for a persistent or worsening cough, especially after contact with a known case or when an infant, pregnant person or vulnerable adult may be exposed. Take prescribed antibiotic treatment exactly as directed. Cover coughs, wash hands, improve ventilation and avoid close contact with babies until a clinician confirms when normal contact is safe. Check whether household contacts need advice or preventive treatment.

Seek emergency help for blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, dehydration, confusion or a child who cannot feed because of coughing. Contact a clinician promptly for coughing fits, repeated vomiting, a fever that persists, or a cough in a young infant. Do not wait for the distinctive whoop before seeking assessment.

Ask whether testing or antibiotic treatment is needed, how long to avoid close contact, whether household members need assessment, and whether immunisation is due for you or your child.