What should you know about the three stages of whooping cough?

The early catarrhal stage can resemble a cold, with a runny nose, sneezing and a mild cough. During the paroxysmal stage, coughing comes in forceful bursts and may be followed by vomiting or a high-pitched intake of breath; babies may have pauses in breathing instead of a classic whoop. In the recovery stage, coughing spells gradually become less frequent, but the cough can linger and flare again with another respiratory illness. A cough is a common presentation of whooping cough, but other infections can also cause cough.

Contact a clinician early if whooping cough is possible, especially when a baby, pregnant person, or someone with a long-term health condition has been exposed. Antibiotic treatment may reduce spread and is most useful when started early, but it does not instantly end established coughing spells. Keep the person away from vulnerable contacts as advised, encourage small frequent drinks, and allow quiet recovery between bouts. Do not give cough medicines to a child unless a clinician recommends one.

Seek emergency help for breathing pauses, blue or grey lips, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or inability to drink. Obtain urgent advice for repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration, or a baby with a worsening cough. Arrange assessment for a cough that comes in bouts, causes vomiting, or follows known exposure. Childhood immunisation is a key prevention measure.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, when the person can return to school or work, which household contacts need advice, and whether vaccination or preventive antibiotics should be considered.