Infectious Diseases
Pertussis
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a severe bacterial infection that was common in children before immunization.
Your child may be feverish and have cold symptoms 7–21 days after contact. Then spasms of coughing develop with a typical high-pitched "whoop" as the child breathes in. Coughing is usually worse at night and may trigger vomiting. The illness can be serious in small babies.
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See your doctor first
Arrange to see your doctor immediately if you suspect that your child has pertussis.
Arrange to see your doctor immediately if you suspect that your child has pertussis.
✨ What you can do yourself
Pertussis can be distressing, so follow these steps to make your child more comfortable.
- Be calm and reassuring. If your child is having trouble sleeping, try to share the care at night.
- Offer plenty of clear fluids. Try honey and lemon, but don't give honey to babies under 1 year.
- Give your child an analgesic (see Drug Remedies section) to reduce fever and discomfort. Don't use cough medicines — they will not help.
- Humidifying the room (see Practical Technique section) may help ease the cough.
- Offering your child soft, easy-to-swallow food in small portions will help prevent vomiting.
- Keep your home free of irritants such as tobacco smoke and aerosol sprays.
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Seek further medical advice
Arrange to see your doctor:
Arrange to see your doctor:
- If your child's condition deteriorates
- To check that your child is fit to return to school; he or she may have coughing fits for several months after the illness
⚠️ WARNING — Seek immediate medical help if:
- Your child becomes drowsy, has seizures, or is choking
- Your child has breathing problems, or his or her lips or tongue turn blue during a coughing spasm
💡 Remember: Whooping cough can be serious, especially in infants. Immunization is the best protection. If you suspect pertussis, see a doctor immediately — early treatment can reduce severity and prevent spread to others.