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Health Department

Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Pertussis, more commonly known as “whooping cough,” is a respiratory illness caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. When a person is infected with pertussis, bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system and release toxins that cause airways to swell. This leads to a severe cough that may last weeks to months.

Pertussis infections typically increase in the winter when people spend more time indoors. Vaccination can prevent infection and reduce the severity of illness if you or your child do get pertussis. Learn more about how you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this illness.

Whooping Cough FAQs

What are the symptoms of whooping cough?

Early symptoms of whooping cough are similar to a common cold, including runny nose, congestion, low fever, and mild cough. In babies and young children, early symptoms may include apnea (pauses in breathing) and cyanosis (blue or purple color in the skin, lips and nail beds).

After 1-2 weeks of these early symptoms, a severe cough may begin. The cough may come in rapid bursts or fits, and may be accompanied by a high-pitched “whoop” sound during inhalation following the cough. Vomiting during or after coughing, and difficulty breathing are also characteristic of this phase of illness.

Recovery from whooping cough may take several weeks or months, with the cough gradually improving over time.

How is whooping cough spread?

The bacteria that cause whooping cough spread through the air through respiratory droplets. It is spread from person to person through sneezes or coughs.

A person with whooping cough is contagious from when symptoms of illness first begin through the first 2 weeks of coughing.

Who is at greatest risk from whooping cough?

Babies are at greatest risk of severe illness and death from whooping cough. One-third of babies younger than 1 year old who get whooping cough need medical care in a hospital, and 1 in 100 die.

How do I know if my cough is caused by pertussis?

Whooping cough is diagnosed by a healthcare provider who evaluates symptoms, conducts an exam, and obtains lab tests (from the throat or blood).

How can I avoid getting whooping cough?

Vaccines (DTaP and Tdap) can help you avoid getting whooping cough. The CDC recommends that infants receive 3 doses of DTaP vaccine, followed by a dose at age 12-15 months and another dose at age 4-6 years. Preteens are recommended to get a dose of Tdap, and all pregnant women should get a dose Tdap during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Anyone who has never been vaccinated should get a Tdap dose. Speak to your healthcare provider if you would like to learn more about these options.

If you are unsure of your vaccination status, check with your healthcare provider to learn more about if a vaccine is right for you.

Good hand hygiene and cough etiquette can help prevent the spread of whooping cough and other respiratory illnesses. Wash your hands often, and cough into your elbow to avoid spreading germs to others.

What should I do if I had contact with someone with whooping cough?

If you live or had close contact with a person diagnosed with whooping cough, you may be able to prevent illness by taking preventive antibiotics. Not everyone is recommended to receive post-exposure antibiotic treatment, so call your health care provider or the health department (720-643-2400) to learn if antibiotic treatment is appropriate for you.

How is whooping cough treated?

Antibiotics can reduce the severity of whooping cough and prevent its spread to others. However, antibiotics taken after 3 weeks of coughing are generally not effective. Even if you receive antibiotic treatment, your cough may be severe and persistent.

A person with whooping cough is contagious until 5 days of antibiotic treatment are completed (or until the person has had a cough for 14 days). It is important to stay home during treatment to avoid spreading whooping cough to others.

If you have severe illness, including difficulty breathing or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination or wet diapers in young children, muscle weakness, lightheadedness), seek immediate medical care.