Pertussis and pneumonia: what to know

Pertussis causes forceful, repeated coughing that can inflame the airways and make it harder to clear mucus. Pneumonia may develop when infection affects the deeper lung tissue. A person may become more short of breath, develop fever or chills, feel unusually weak, or have pain when breathing or coughing.

The cough itself can remain intense even while another symptom changes, so a new decline should not be dismissed as part of the usual illness. A clinician may listen to the chest, measure oxygen, and decide whether imaging or other tests are needed.

Contact a clinician promptly if a person with pertussis develops new fever, faster breathing, chest discomfort, increasing tiredness, or difficulty drinking. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed and mention kidney, liver, heart, or lung conditions before medicines are chosen.

Rest upright if that eases breathing, take frequent sips of fluid, and avoid smoke. Do not share towels, cups, or close indoor space with vulnerable people while contagiousness is being assessed.

Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, coughing pauses, or inability to stay awake. Urgent review is also needed when repeated vomiting or breathlessness prevents drinking.

Ask whether pneumonia is suspected, how oxygen and hydration will be monitored, which symptoms should trigger emergency help, and how to protect family members during recovery.