How can whooping cough begin?
Early symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, a mild fever and a mild cough. As the illness develops, coughing can become more intense and happen in repeated fits. These fits may make it difficult to eat, drink or breathe. [1]
Some people make a high-pitched “whoop” when taking a breath after a fit. Others vomit after coughing or feel exhausted. These features can raise concern, but an article cannot tell which infection is causing your cough. A worsening or violent cough is a reason to seek medical advice. [2]
Why do babies need particular attention?
Babies do not always show the familiar pattern. Some barely cough; pauses in breathing may be the main sign. A baby who does not make a whooping sound can still be seriously ill. [2]
Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection also advises immediate hospital care for a child with persistent fever and cough who has distressing gasps during coughing episodes. This is an example of when to act, not a list of conditions you must wait to see together. Breathing difficulty needs immediate care. [1] [2]
What complications can it cause?
Whooping cough can lead to a lung infection. Severe illness can cause seizures or coma, and babies are particularly vulnerable to serious complications. Some need hospital care to support breathing and prevent or treat dehydration. [1] [2] [3]
Older children and adults can also become ill. Being vaccinated does not rule out whooping cough, although illness is generally milder in people who have been vaccinated. Tell the doctor about vaccination history as well as the current symptoms. [1] [2]
What should you tell the doctor?
Explain when the cough started, how it has changed, whether coughing causes vomiting or breathing difficulty, and whether there has been contact with someone diagnosed with whooping cough. Mention any babies at home, and bring vaccination records if available. These details help the clinical team decide what assessment is needed.
Doctors use antibiotics to treat whooping cough. Early treatment can make illness less serious and help reduce spread, so do not wait for the cough to become severe before asking for advice if you suspect an infection. Take prescribed medicine as directed; do not add cough medicines unless your healthcare professional recommends them. [1] [3]
How can a household reduce spread?
Whooping cough spreads through droplets from an infected person. Wash hands, cover coughs with tissues and dispose of them promptly. Adults with respiratory symptoms should wear a surgical mask, stay away from work or school and seek medical advice promptly. [1]
Questions about prevention, vaccine timing or combinations can be discussed separately with your doctor. They should not delay assessment of a current illness.
Related reading
See our Tdap vaccine guide for vaccination questions and Hong Kong’s childhood immunisation programme for the routine childhood pathway.