Pertussis in Children

Symptoms Every Parent Should Watch For

- Dr. Dinakar Prithviraj

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. While it can affect people of all ages, young children and infants are most vulnerable, and the illness can sometimes become serious.

Pertussis is often called “whooping cough” because of the distinctive “whoop” sound children may make while gasping for breath after a severe coughing spell. The infection spreads through tiny droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it easy to pass on in households, schools, and daycare centers.

Early Symptoms

In the beginning, pertussis can look a lot like a common cold. This makes it tricky for parents to identify. Early signs usually appear within 7-10 days after infection and may include:

• Runny nose

• Sneezing

• Mild cough

• Low-grade fever

• Red, watery eyes

At this stage, children may not seem very sick, but the infection is already contagious.

Progression of Symptoms

After one to two weeks, the coughing worsens and becomes more recognizable as pertussis. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Severe coughing fits that come in bursts

• A “whooping” sound when the child breathes in after coughing

• Vomiting after coughing due to the intensity of the fits