What should you know about rch whooping cough?

The illness may begin like a mild cold, with a runny nose and a developing cough. Coughing can then arrive in forceful bouts; some people make a high-pitched intake of breath afterwards, while others do not. Vomiting after coughing and marked tiredness can occur. Young infants may have pauses in breathing rather than a classic whoop, so a quiet change in breathing deserves attention. A cough can remain troublesome after the infection itself starts settling.

Arrange a clinical assessment if whooping cough is suspected, particularly when the patient is an infant, pregnant, or in close contact with a newborn. Rest, fluids and small meals can help; avoid smoke and other airway irritants. Stay away from vulnerable people until a clinician explains when contact is safe. Antibiotic treatment may be prescribed early to reduce transmission and is not a substitute for monitoring breathing. Vaccination helps protect children and eligible household contacts.

Seek urgent help for blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, severe difficulty breathing, unusual sleepiness, inability to drink, or signs of dehydration. Get prompt medical advice for a worsening cough, repeated vomiting, or fever in a young baby. Emergency symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.

Could this be whooping cough, and is testing needed? When can the person return to nursery, school or work? Which household members need preventive advice or an immunisation review? What breathing changes should prompt emergency help?