Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. In children, it typically starts with mild cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and a mild cough, which can make it difficult to diagnose early on. As the illness progresses, the coughing fits become more severe and frequent. The hallmark sign of whooping cough is a sudden, intense coughing spell that ends with a "whooping" sound as the child tries to catch their breath. These coughing fits can last for several weeks and may be accompanied by vomiting, exhaustion and difficulty breathing, especially in younger children and infants. Infants may not even cough at all but instead they may struggle to breath. Whooping cough can be especially dangerous for babies under 6 months old, potentially leading to serious complications like pneumonia or seizures.
At Independence and Lee’s Summit Pediatrics, we are experienced in diagnosing and managing whooping cough. If you suspect your child may have pertussis, we can perform a test to confirm the diagnosis. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial to help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading to others. While antibiotics are effective in the early stages, they may not reverse the symptoms once the coughing fits have started. In addition to antibiotics, supportive care is important. This can include ensuring your child stays hydrated, gets plenty of rest, and may involve medications to help manage cough and breathing difficulties.
Prevention is key when it comes to whooping cough, and we encourage all children to receive the DTaP vaccine – which protects against pertussis – as part of their routine immunizations. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your child and those around them from this highly contagious disease. If your child is diagnosed with whooping cough, we will work closely with you to manage their symptoms, offer guidance on reducing the risk of transmission, and monitor for any potential complications. Early intervention and proper treatment can help your child recover more comfortably and avoid serious health issues.