What is the medical name for whooping cough?

Pertussis can begin like a mild cold, with a runny nose and a light cough, before coughing spells become more forceful or frequent. A high-pitched intake of breath may follow a spell, but it is not present in everyone, especially young babies. Vomiting or exhaustion after coughing can occur.

The infection spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. Babies, pregnant people, older adults, and anyone with breathing problems may need particularly prompt advice. A [Whooping Cough](/conditions/whooping-cough/) overview provides more detail about the condition.

Contact a clinician if pertussis is suspected, especially after exposure to someone with the infection. Keep the person away from babies and vulnerable household members while seeking advice, cover coughs, wash hands, and improve ventilation. Give small sips of fluid and allow rest. Do not start leftover antibiotics or cough medicines without guidance.

An [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/) plan may be considered by a clinician. Treatment can be more useful when started early and may help reduce spread, but the choice depends on the person and timing.

Get emergency help for pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or a person who cannot be woken normally. Seek same-day advice for a baby with coughing spells, poor feeding, repeated vomiting, or unusual sleepiness. A cough that is rapidly worsening or accompanied by dehydration also needs prompt assessment.

For related symptoms, see [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) and [Fever](/symptoms/fever/). Do not use the absence of fever to rule out pertussis.

Ask whether testing is needed, whether the person should stay away from school or work, and how to protect household contacts. Ask when symptoms require urgent help and whether close contacts need preventive treatment. You can also check whether vaccinations are up to date; [Childhood Immunisation](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/childhood-immunisation/) explains routine protection.