What should you know about pertussis virus?

Pertussis is also called whooping cough. It often begins like a cold, with a runny nose and mild cough, before repeated bursts of coughing develop. A high-pitched intake of breath may follow an attack, although not everyone makes a whooping sound. Babies may have pauses in breathing rather than a typical cough. The infection spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact.

A cough is a common presentation of whooping cough, and fever may occur but is often not prominent. The cough can persist after the person otherwise feels better. A clinician may use the symptoms, examination and a respiratory sample to assess the diagnosis.

Arrange medical advice promptly if pertussis is suspected, particularly for a baby, pregnant person, older adult or anyone with a long-term lung condition. Keep the person rested, offer small frequent drinks, and avoid smoke and other airway irritants. Cover coughs, wash hands and limit close contact with infants until a clinician advises that the risk of spread has reduced.

A clinician may prescribe antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics can reduce transmission and may help more when started early, but they do not always stop the cough immediately. Do not share leftover medicine. Childhood immunisation lowers the risk of pertussis and helps protect people who are more vulnerable.

Seek emergency help for blue or grey lips, severe breathing difficulty, pauses in breathing, unusual limpness, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. Get same-day medical advice if coughing attacks are frequent, cause vomiting, produce a whoop, or interfere with sleep and drinking. Babies with any breathing change need urgent assessment.

Ask whether testing is needed, whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate, how long to avoid close contact, and which household members may need assessment or preventive advice.