What are the treatment options for whooping cough?

An antibiotic treatment may reduce transmission and can be more useful when started early; it may not immediately stop the cough once the airways are irritated. A clinician will consider the timing of symptoms, test results, age and contact with vulnerable people. Supportive care includes rest, fluids and avoiding smoke or other airway irritants. Babies, pregnant people and those with breathing or immune problems may need closer assessment.

Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and ask when it is safe to return to school, work or close contact. Cover coughs, wash hands, improve ventilation and avoid sharing drinks or utensils. Keep infants away from anyone with a prolonged cough until a clinician advises that contact is safe. Do not give cough medicines to a child unless a healthcare professional recommends the product and dose.

Call emergency services for blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, severe breathing difficulty, collapse or unusual difficulty waking. Arrange prompt medical assessment for an infant with coughing spells, vomiting after coughing, poor feeding or fewer wet nappies. Adults should seek advice for chest pain, dehydration or worsening breathlessness.

Ask whether testing or antibiotics are appropriate, how long you should limit contact, which household members need advice, and whether vaccinations are up to date.