Recovery From Whooping Cough

Whooping cough is a respiratory infection that can cause repeated, forceful coughing. The cough may linger because the airways remain irritated after the bacteria are no longer causing the main illness. Vomiting after a coughing fit, disturbed sleep, chest soreness, and exhaustion can occur. Infants, older adults, and people with breathing conditions may become seriously unwell and need closer observation.

Take prescribed Antibiotic Treatment exactly as directed; it may reduce spread and is most useful when started early, but it may not stop the cough immediately. Rest between activities, sip fluids, choose small meals if coughing triggers nausea, and avoid smoke or other airway irritants. Follow local advice about staying away from babies and vulnerable people. Review vaccination needs with a clinician.

Seek urgent help for blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, dehydration, or inability to feed. Contact a clinician promptly if coughing fits are worsening, Fever returns, or vomiting prevents fluids. A baby with unusual sleepiness or breathing changes needs immediate assessment.

Ask when you are no longer likely to spread infection, whether household contacts need assessment, how to manage night-time coughing, and whether Childhood Immunisation is up to date.