Whooping Cough (Pertussis) - Treatment Overview

Treatment Overview

Whooping cough is generally treated with antibiotics. Although antibiotics may help shorten the course of the disease if they are given early in the first stage of illness, they may not be prescribed right away because initial symptoms of whooping cough usually are indistinguishable from those of the common cold. As symptoms progress, they become more distinctive of whooping cough. Antibiotics are usually given at this point. This is done to reduce the spread of infection while waiting for lab results to confirm the diagnosis, which typically takes 10 to 14 days. Family members and others who have had close contact with someone infected with whooping cough are sometimes prescribed antibiotics for coldlike symptoms or even before developing symptoms.

Severe coughing spells can significantly decrease the blood's oxygen supply. If blood oxygen levels, measured with a pulse oximeter, are low, oxygen may be given for a short time through a nasal cannula or an oxygen mask.

Infants, especially those younger than 4 months of age, are typically hospitalized. Hospitalization allows health professionals to ensure the baby is getting enough fluids and nutrients. Also, the baby is monitored and evaluated for how well he or she tolerates and recovers from coughing episodes. If needed, a baby also may receive oxygen therapy and have mucus suctioned from the nose and throat. Because suctioning mucus may trigger coughing spells, it is only done in specific situations.

Emergency treatment

Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if a person stops breathing, turns blue, or becomes unconscious. Start rescue breathing immediately or follow instructions given by emergency services while you wait for help. For more information, see the Rescue Breathing section of the topic Dealing With Emergencies.