Pertussis sore throat: what to know

Pertussis often begins like a mild cold, with throat irritation, a runny nose and tiredness. The throat discomfort may be overshadowed as coughing becomes forceful or arrives in bursts. A sore throat alone does not identify the cause; common cold, influenza, COVID-19, acid reflux, allergic rhinitis, tonsillitis, strep throat and glandular fever can also cause throat symptoms. A clinician considers the cough pattern, exposure history, vaccination status and examination together.

Arrange medical advice if a sore throat is followed by bouts of coughing, vomiting after coughing, or a noisy intake of breath. Sip fluids, choose soft foods, rest, and avoid smoke or other throat irritants. Cover coughs, wash hands and avoid close contact with infants while seeking advice, because pertussis can spread before its pattern is obvious. Do not start leftover antibiotics; treatment decisions depend on timing and assessment.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, confusion, fainting, or inability to keep fluids down. Get prompt medical advice for a baby with coughing, poor feeding or breathing changes, or for anyone whose cough is worsening or disrupting sleep and eating. Tell the clinician about contact with a person diagnosed with pertussis.

Ask whether the cough pattern warrants pertussis testing, whether you should stay away from vulnerable people, and whether household contacts need preventive advice.