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Pertussis is a very contagious disease that is caused by a bacteria called Bordetella pertussis and only found in humans.

Pertussis spreads from person to person by coughing or sneezing or spending a lot of time near one another where you share a breathing space.

Symptoms of Pertussis include:

Early:

• Cold-like symptoms (Runny nose/mild-occasional cough)
• Low-grade fever

Later:

• Paroxysms (fits) of many, rapid coughs followed by a high pitch “whoop“ sound
• Vomiting (throwing up) during or after coughing fits
• Exhaustion (very tired) after coughing fits

Infected people are most contagious up to about 2 weeks after the cough begins. Antibiotics may shorten the amount of time someone is contagious.

You can help relieve symptoms of pertussis by:

• Following the schedule for giving antibiotics as prescribed by your child’s doctor.
• Keeping you home free from irritants—as much as possible—that can trigger coughing, such as smoke, dust, and chemical fumes.
• Using a clean, cool mist vaporizer to help loosen mucous and soothe the cough.
• Practice good handwashing
• Drinking fluids to stay hydrated
• Getting plenty of rest
• Stay home from school as directed by physician

While pertussis vaccines are the most effective tool to prevent this disease, no vaccine is 100% effective.