How pertussis spreads

Close contact makes spread easier because people share air and surfaces around the mouth and nose. An infected person may initially seem to have an ordinary cold, so transmission can happen before the distinctive coughing bouts appear. Babies are especially vulnerable because they may develop pauses in breathing, feeding difficulty or exhaustion rather than a strong cough. A person with a persistent cough should avoid close contact with infants and arrange medical advice.

Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, wash hands after touching your face, and improve airflow in shared rooms. Do not share cups, utensils or items that have touched saliva. If pertussis is suspected or confirmed, contact a clinician about testing, prescribed antibiotics and how long to stay away from vulnerable people. Tell household members and childcare or school contacts so they can receive appropriate advice.

Seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion or inability to drink. Arrange same-day assessment for a coughing spell that causes vomiting, a rapidly worsening cough or fever. A baby or young child exposed to pertussis needs prompt advice even before severe symptoms develop.

Ask whether recent contact requires preventive antibiotics, whether testing is suitable, and when the person can safely return to work, school or childcare. Check whether close contacts are up to date with immunisation.