Whooping Cough (Pertussis) in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Whooping cough (also called pertussis) is an infection that causes severe coughing. Your child may also have symptoms that are similar to those of a common cold, such as a runny nose and a fever. People of any age can get it, but it can be more severe for babies in their first year.

Your child may have a cough for weeks or even months. A sudden burst of intense coughing (coughing fit) may last a long time. Your child may be very tired in between coughing fits.

The doctor may give your child antibiotics. Babies are often treated in the hospital.

This infection can spread quickly from person to person. Babies, especially if they aren't vaccinated, may catch whooping cough from adult caregivers who don't know that they have it. You can help prevent or decrease the severity of whooping cough by keeping your family's vaccines up to date.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with their medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be careful with cough and cold medicines. Don't give them to children younger than 6, because they don't work for children that age and can even be harmful. For children 6 and older, always follow all the instructions carefully. Make sure you know how much medicine to give and how long to use it. And use the dosing device if one is included.
• Keep your child away from smoke and the aerosol mist from vaping. Do not smoke or vape around your child or in your house, and avoid being around others who are smoking or vaping.
• Have your child get plenty of rest.
• Give your child frequent, small sips of fluids, and offer healthy foods.
• Place a cool-mist humidifier by your child's bed or close to your child. This may make it easier for your child to breathe. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine.
• Keep your child away from other children and older adults while your child is ill.
• Make sure that all family members and visitors wash their hands often to help prevent the spread of infection.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child stops breathing, turns blue, or becomes unconscious. Follow instructions given by emergency services while you wait for help.
• Your child has severe trouble breathing. Symptoms may include:
  • Using the belly muscles to breathe.
  • The chest sinking in or the nostrils flaring when your child struggles to breathe.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has more trouble breathing or is breathing faster.
• Your child is vomiting and cannot keep down fluids.
• Your child has a new or higher fever.
• Your child is too tired to eat or drink.
• Your child's face, hands, and feet look slightly gray or purple.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child is not getting better.