Does whooping cough cause fever?

Whooping cough often begins like a cold, with a runny nose and mild cough, before repeated coughing spells develop. Fever may accompany the early infection and may not continue as the cough becomes more troublesome. A whoop when breathing in, vomiting after coughing, or exhaustion after coughing fits can also occur. Fever by itself cannot establish the cause because many infections produce it.

Offer frequent fluids and allow rest. Dress the person comfortably and follow the label or a clinician's advice for fever medicine; do not give medicines intended for adults to a child unless advised. Keep babies and vulnerable household members away from close contact until a clinician explains precautions. Contact a clinician early because treatment decisions and infection-control advice are time-sensitive.

Get urgent help if breathing pauses, lips or face look blue or grey, breathing is difficult, the person is unusually drowsy, cannot keep fluids down, or shows signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Babies with coughing spells, fever, or breathing changes need prompt medical assessment.

Ask whether testing or prescription treatment is appropriate, how long the person may be infectious, and which household contacts need advice. Mention the person's age, vaccination history, cough pattern, measured temperature, and any breathing changes.