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What is whooping cough?

Whooping cough, pertussis, is a serious respiratory disease caused by a bacterium. It can affect persons of all ages and is very contagious.

What are the symptoms?

The infection usually begins as a cold with a runny nose and cough. The cough becomes more frequent and severe. Repeated coughing spells (coughing spasms) are often accompanied by a crowing or a high pitched "whoop" as the person takes a breath in. Gagging, vomiting or extreme shortness of breath may follow the coughing. This cough may last for 1 or 2 months and is worse at night.

How is it spread?

Pertussis is easily spread through the air from person to person and through direct contact of respiratory secretions of an infected person. It can be spread to others for up to three weeks after the coughing spells start.   

What is the incubation period?

It takes an average of 9-10 days to come down with whooping cough after coming in contact with someone else who has it.

What is the treatment?

If your child develops symptoms of whooping cough, please see your health care provider. Antibiotic treatment may be necessary for all family members and close contacts to limit the spread of this bacterium to others. Any child who has whooping cough must stay home from school or daycare until they have been on the appropriate antibiotic for 5 days.

Is there a vaccine?

Most children are routinely immunized against whooping cough at two, four, six, and 18 months and receive a booster at 4-6 years and at 14-16 years. Ensure your child's immunization for whooping cough is up to date.

For more information, please call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456.