Official Louisiana State Websites use .la.gov 
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS 
Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordatella pertussis. It affects people of all ages but can be very serious for babies less than a year old.
People with whooping cough commonly have severe coughing fits. This causes them to take deep breaths right after and make the “whooping” sound.
Whooping cough spreads from person to person through coughing, sneezing and close contact. Infected people are most contagious up to two weeks after the cough begins. Many babies who get whooping cough are infected by family members or caregivers who may not even know they are carrying the bacteria.
Symptoms
Whooping cough symptoms usually develop within five to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. However, it can be as long as three weeks before symptoms appear.
In early stages, whooping cough can have cold-like symptoms. Because of this, healthcare professionals may not diagnose it until later stages. About half of babies younger than a year old who get whooping cough will need hospital care.
In babies, the cough may be minimal or not there at all. Babies may also have “apnea” – a pause in their breathing pattern.
Early Symptoms
- Runny nose
- Low-grade fever (less than 100.4°F)
- Mild, occasional cough
- Apnea – a pause in breathing (in babies)
After a week or two, the illness progresses and other symptoms appear.
Later-Stage Symptoms
- Fits of rapid coughs followed by deep inhales and a high-pitched “whoop” sound
- Vomiting during or after coughing fits
- Exhaustion after coughing fits
- Trouble breathing
Coughing fits may happen more frequently as the disease progresses. Teens and adults usually recover without any issues. However, some complications that develop may be a result of strenuous coughing. This can be bruised or cracked ribs, abdominal hernias or broken blood vessels in the skin or whites of the eyes.
In babies, complications can be more severe and may include:
- Pneumonia (lung inflammation)
- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Dehydration or weight loss from feeding difficulty
- Seizures
- Brain damage
Vaccination is the best way to protect against whooping cough and serious complications resulting from it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is most at risk of severe illness?
The risk of severe complications and death resulting from pertussis is highest among young infants, particularly those under the age of two months (who are not yet eligible for vaccination).
Babies and children who haven't had all recommended pertussis vaccines are more likely to get serious complications.
Teens and adults can also get complications, like pneumonia, from pertussis. Complications are usually less serious in this older age group, especially in those who have been vaccinated against pertussis.
How do I protect myself from whooping cough?
Whooping cough vaccines are the best way to protect against whooping cough.
These vaccines work well, but protection fades over time.
The best way to protect newborns from pertussis is for pregnant women to receive a Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy.
Talk to a vaccine provider if you have questions about whooping cough vaccines.
Who should get the whooping cough vaccine?
The CDC recommends that people of all ages get the whooping cough vaccine.
Today there are two vaccines that help protect against whooping cough: DTaP and Tdap. Both of these also protect against tetanus and diphtheria.
- DTaP – recommended for children younger than 7 years of age.
- Tdap – recommended for older children, teens and adults.
Babies and children younger than seven years old receive DTaP vaccine a total of five times:
- 2 months of age
- 4 months of age
- 6 months of age
- 15 to 18 months of age
- 4 to 6 years of age
Preteens should receive the Tdap booster between 11 and 12 years of age. Adults should receive another dose of Tdap every 10 years.
Pregnant women should also get the Tdap vaccine during the third trimester of any pregnancy.
Talk with your doctor about which whooping cough vaccine is right for you.
Is the whooping cough vaccine safe?
The whooping cough vaccine is safe and effective. Although a person can still get whooping cough after vaccination, they usually experience milder symptoms and less complications than those who are not vaccinated.
Most people do not experience any serious side effects from the vaccine, although some may occur. Most side effects are mild and may include soreness at the site of the shot, fever, headache or fatigue.
What do I do if I, or my family, have been exposed or have symptoms?
See a healthcare provider if you or your child are coughing violently. Seek immediate care for breathing difficulties.
Treating pertussis early with antibiotics may make the infection less serious.
CDC recommends practicing good hygiene to help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses that can cause many respiratory illnesses.