Types of pertussis

The early phase may resemble a cold, with a runny nose and mild cough. In the coughing phase, repeated bursts can cause vomiting, exhaustion or a sharp intake of breath; some people do not make a whooping sound. Babies may have pauses in breathing, poor feeding or blue colouring instead of a loud cough. The recovery phase can last weeks, and coughing may return during later respiratory infections. Vaccination can reduce the risk and severity but does not make every cough impossible.

Contact a clinician early if pertussis is possible, especially after close contact with someone diagnosed with it or around a young baby. Testing and timing affect treatment decisions. Stay home while advised, cover coughs, wash hands and avoid close contact with infants and pregnant people. Antibiotic treatment may reduce spread when started at an appropriate stage, although the cough can take longer to settle. Check that household immunisations are up to date.

Seek urgent help for pauses in breathing, blue or grey lips, severe breathing difficulty, dehydration, unusual sleepiness or repeated vomiting. A baby with suspected pertussis needs prompt assessment even if the cough seems mild. Arrange medical review for a worsening cough, coughing fits or fever, particularly if symptoms follow contact with pertussis.

Which phase could my symptoms represent? Do I need testing or antibiotic treatment? How long should I avoid close contact? Should family members be assessed, and are vaccinations up to date?