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What is Whooping Cough (Pertussis)?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a severe respiratory infection that results in a prolonged and distressing coughing illness. In infants, this infection can occasionally progress to pneumonia, and in rare cases, it may even cause brain damage, posing a significant threat to their lives. Furthermore, older children and adults can contract whooping cough and serve as a source of transmission to vulnerable individuals, particularly babies.

What are the signs and symptoms of Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough typically begins with symptoms resembling a common cold, including nasal congestion, a runny nose, sneezing, and a mild fever. As the infection progresses, it leads to severe and uncontrollable bouts of coughing. These coughing episodes may be accompanied by vomiting, choking, or gasping for air, resulting in a distinctive "whooping" sound. The cough can persist for several weeks, with night-time exacerbations being common.

In some cases, newborns may not exhibit coughing but instead experience episodes of apnea (temporary cessation of breathing) and cyanosis (bluish discoloration). Other infants may encounter challenges while feeding, or they may be prone to choking and gagging.

In older children and adults, the symptoms may manifest as a persistent, mild cough that lingers for an extended period. In fact, in China, whooping cough is colloquially referred to as the "100-day cough" due to its prolonged duration.

How is Whooping Cough spread?

An individual with whooping cough can transmit the infection to others during the initial three weeks of illness. When the affected person coughs, bacteria can be expelled into the air, making it possible for nearby babies, children, or adults to inhale them. Consequently, these individuals are at risk of contracting whooping cough, usually within approximately one week. The infection can rapidly spread within families, childcare centres, and schools, emphasising the need for prompt action and preventive measures.

FAQ - Whooping Cough Vaccine

1What is Whooping Cough (Pertussis)?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a severe respiratory infection that results in a prolonged and distressing coughing illness. In infants, this infection can occasionally progress to pneumonia, and in rare cases, it may even cause brain damage, posing a significant threat to their lives.
2What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
The onset of whooping cough initially resembles symptoms of a common cold. However, the condition can rapidly advance and encompass the following:
  • The emergence of a distinctive "whooping" sound during inhalation.
  • Vomiting episodes that follow severe bouts of coughing.
  • Apnea, which involves temporary cessation of breathing for periods of time.
  • Loss of appetite or refusal to feed, particularly observed in infants.
  • General weakness and fatigue.
    • 3How is whooping cough spread?
    An individual with whooping cough can transmit the infection to others during the initial three weeks of illness. When the affected person coughs, bacteria can be expelled into the air, making it possible for nearby babies, children, or adults to inhale them.
    4What are the different types of whooping cough vaccine?
    In Australia, the whooping cough vaccine is exclusively available in combination with diphtheria and tetanus vaccines. Additionally, these combined vaccines may include inactivated poliovirus, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b. It is recommended to consult your doctor or immunisation provider for guidance on the available vaccines and the most appropriate option for you.
    5What are the side effects?
    The side effects of whooping cough vaccines are typically mild and of short duration. These side effects may include localized pain, redness, and swelling at the site of injection, as well as fever, nausea, fatigue, weakness, or tiredness, and body aches. Although rare, more serious side effects can occur after receiving a whooping cough vaccine. However, these instances are generally limited to allergic (anaphylactic) reactions to components within the vaccine. If you have concerns about severe or persistent side effects, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Contact your general practitioner, visit the nearest hospital emergency department, or call '000' immediately.
    6Is the whooping cough safe in pregnancy?
    Whooping cough vaccines are considered safe during pregnancy. In fact, it is recommended to receive the whooping cough immunisation between 20 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. Administering the vaccine during this timeframe allows the mother's body sufficient time to generate antibodies that can be passed on to the baby before birth. These antibodies play a crucial role in providing protection to the newborn until they are old enough to receive their own immunisation.
    7How can whooping cough be prevented?
    Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is an illness that can be prevented through vaccination. By receiving the pertussis vaccine, individuals can safeguard themselves from contracting the disease.

    Has anyone in your family, including yourself, not received the whooping cough shot yet? To secure your preferred date and time for the appointment, please click the link below.

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    Available at select Choice Pharmacies. In compliance with Australian regulations and our Privacy Policy, there may be instances where we are obligated to gather and share your personal information with a third party for the specific purpose of vaccine administration. General information provided. Consult healthcare professional for accurate and up-to-date guidance. Information current as of publishing date.