Symptoms by Stage
| Stage | Duration | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Catarrhal | 1-2 weeks | Mild cough, runny nose, low fever — looks like a cold; most contagious phase |
| Paroxysmal | 1-6 weeks | Severe coughing fits, followed by a 'whoop' sound on breathing in; vomiting after coughing common |
| Convalescent | Weeks to months | Gradually improving cough, may persist for months ('the 100-day cough') |
Why It's Dangerous for Babies
Infants under 6 months, especially those too young for their own vaccinations, can develop apnoea (pauses in breathing) rather than the classic cough, along with pneumonia, seizures, and in severe cases, death. This is why maternal vaccination during pregnancy is so strongly recommended — it passes protective antibodies to the baby before birth.Treatment
| Timing | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Within 3 weeks of cough onset | Antibiotics (azithromycin, clarithromycin) — reduces spread, but has little effect on cough duration if started late |
| Household contacts | May be offered preventive antibiotics, especially if a vulnerable person (infant, pregnant woman) is in the household |
| Supportive care | Rest, fluids, small frequent meals to reduce vomiting after coughing |
Emergency Signs in InfantsPauses in breathing (apnoea), blue lips or face during coughing fits, extreme exhaustion, or difficulty feeding — babies with suspected whooping cough should be assessed urgently, often requiring hospital admission for monitoring.
Vaccination in PregnancyThe pertussis vaccine is recommended for every pregnancy, ideally between 16-32 weeks, regardless of previous vaccination history. This is one of the most effective interventions to protect newborns from severe whooping cough.
How long does the cough last?
Whooping cough is sometimes called 'the 100-day cough' because the coughing fits can persist for weeks to months even after the infectious period has passed.
Can adults get whooping cough?
Yes — immunity from childhood vaccination wanes over time. Adults usually have a milder, prolonged cough illness but can still spread the infection to vulnerable infants.
Is whooping cough the same as a normal cough with a cold?
No — the coughing fits in pertussis are typically much more severe, prolonged, and exhausting, often followed by vomiting, and the characteristic 'whoop' sound distinguishes it, though not everyone whoops.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.