Understanding Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
What is it? Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection that causes severe coughing fits. The illness progresses through three stages and can last 6-10 weeks.
Common Types
- Catarrhal Stage (1-2 weeks): Mild cold-like symptoms
- Symptoms: Runny nose, low-grade fever, mild cough
- Paroxysmal Stage (2-6 weeks): Severe coughing fits
- Classic features: Paroxysms of rapid coughs followed by "whoop," post-cough vomiting, apnea in infants
- Convalescent Stage (weeks to months): Gradual recovery with decreasing cough frequency
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's pertussis at home when:
- Your child has started appropriate antibiotic treatment
- Age 3 months or older
- No apnea (breathing stops) or color changes
- Able to maintain hydration with frequent small feeds
- No signs of respiratory distress between coughing fits
How to Treat at Home
🏠 Home remedies for pertussis:
- Hydration: Frequent small feeds; monitor wet diapers (at least 3-4/day)
- Nasal suctioning: Use saline prior to feeds/sleep
- Keep child calm: Crying and agitation can worsen symptoms
- Monitor feeding: Babies may eat smaller amounts more frequently
Safe Medications
- Antibiotics: Your child will be prescribed an antibiotic appropriate for their age (typically azithromycin, erythromycin, or clarithromycin). Complete the full course as directed.
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen: For fever or discomfort if present
- AVOID over-the-counter cough medications (not effective for pertussis)
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
- Worsening symptoms or new symptoms develop
- Concerns about household contact exposure
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Exhaustion, poor feeding, or weight loss from persistent coughing
- Signs of complications: pneumonia, dehydration
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child is:
- Age <3 months with any symptoms
- Experiencing apnea or cyanosis during coughing fits
- Having any respiratory distress: retractions, hypoxia
- Having seizures or altered mental status
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
