Whooping Cough: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Family
July 14, 2026
What Is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the lungs and airways. It spreads through coughs and sneezes and can affect people of any age. A person with whooping cough can spread the infection from the start of symptoms and may remain contagious for several weeks after coughing begins if untreated. Antibiotics started early can shorten the contagious period.
While older children and adults may recover without serious problems, whooping cough can be especially dangerous for babies, young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.
Vaccination remains the best way to help protect against whooping cough, although immunity can decrease over time, so repeated vaccinations are recommended.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
Whooping cough often begins like a common cold. Early symptoms may include:
Runny or stuffy nose
Mild cough
Low-grade fever
After one to two weeks, the cough may become more severe and include:
Rapid coughing fits followed by a high-pitched "whoop" when breathing in
Vomiting after coughing
Trouble catching your breath
Extreme tiredness after coughing spells
Infants may not make the classic "whoop" sound but can have pauses in breathing, making prompt medical care especially important.
How Whooping Cough Is Diagnosed and Treated
A healthcare provider can diagnose whooping cough by reviewing your symptoms and may recommend a nasal swab or other testing. Antibiotics can help reduce the spread of infection, especially when started early. Rest, fluids, and avoiding exposure to others while contagious are also important parts of recovery. Treating whooping cough early can make the illness less serious and helps prevent the bacteria spreading to others.
When to See a Provider
Contact a healthcare provider if you or your child has a persistent cough that lasts more than two weeks, severe coughing fits, trouble breathing, or signs of dehydration. Babies with any symptoms of whooping cough should be seen right away.
Prevention and Next Steps
The best protection against whooping cough is staying up to date on recommended vaccinations, including booster shots for adolescents and adults and vaccination during pregnancy. Washing your hands frequently and covering coughs can also help reduce the spread of illness.
If you have questions about whooping cough, your symptoms, or vaccinations, Presbyterian's care teams are here to help. Talk with your healthcare provider to learn more about protecting yourself and your family.
Clinical information provided by Jessie Crumley, DrPH, MPH, RN, Director of Infection Prevention and Control for Presbyterian Healthcare.
