What is Pertussis?
Bordetella pertussis is the bacteria that causes whooping cough. The cough of Pertussis can make breathing hard and is especially dangerous for infants and young children.
Pertussis is a vaccine preventable disease though it is possible to contract a milder form even if vaccinated. Whooping cough generally occurs in 3 stages:
Catarrhal: a period of cold symptoms usually without fever. This is the most contagious stage though most aren’t aware at this time that they have pertussis
Paroxysmal: characterized by a harsh and persistent ‘whooping’ cough. Whooping is caused by forceful breathing in after a coughing attack
Convalescent: symptoms steadily improve over weeks to months.
How is Pertussis Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis of pertussis should be suspected if:
Coughing fits with or without whooping
Pronounced, prolonged cough with persistent, clear runny nose
A cough characterized by:
Whooping (loud, forced inspiration)
Periods where your child stops breathing (apnea),
Vomiting from coughing so hard
Burst blood vessels in the whites of the eyes
Cough that disrupts sleep
Bluish facial discoloration (cyanosis)
Sweating episodes between coughing fits
While pertussis can be diagnosed by history and exam, it can be confirmed by a laboratory test after swabbing your child’s nose.
How to Treat Pertussis
Supportive care: ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids. Anti-cough medications are not recommended. Tylenol and ibuprofen can be used for discomfort and fever.
Antibiotics: the decision to start antibiotics should be made in conjunction with your child’s provider. Antibiotics started close to the beginning of the illness are most effective
Household contacts: your child’s provider might recommend treating members of your household with antibiotics preventatively
Prevention: make sure your child is vaccinated. Even children who have had pertussis should continue to be vaccinated against it according to the recommended vaccine schedule
When can my child return to school?
A child can return to school post-pertussis when:
They have received 5 days of antibiotic treatment, or
If not treated with antibiotics, at least 21 days have passed since symptoms started
See a doctor in person if…
Your child is having a hard time breathing
Your child develops a high fever
Your child is unable to drink to stay hydrated
Your child looks lethargic or extremely tired
Your child develop a high fever
Your child is less less than 4 months old
Your child has a seizure