Whooping cough

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a contagious bacterial respiratory infection. It can begin like a cold and develop into repeated coughing bouts, sometimes with vomiting or a whooping sound. Babies may have breathing pauses without a typical cough. Early assessment matters, particularly when infants or pregnant people may have been exposed.

Can I have it without the whoop?

Yes. The characteristic sound is not present in every case. A prolonged or severe cough, known exposure or contact with vulnerable people can justify assessment even if symptoms do not match the familiar description. Vaccination history is relevant but does not rule out infection completely.

Tell the clinician when the cough began, whether there is vomiting after coughing, and whether you have contact with young babies. Mention school, childcare or household exposure. Testing may involve a nose or throat sample, depending on timing and clinical advice.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Whooping cough (pertussis) - symptoms, treatment and prevention.

What happens if it is suspected?

A doctor decides whether testing or treatment is appropriate and explains how to reduce spread. Public health advice may also apply to close contacts. Ask specifically about work, school, childcare and visiting vulnerable people rather than guessing a safe return date.

A cough can persist after the infectious period, so symptom duration and transmission risk are not identical. Follow the clinician's instructions about treatment and exclusion. Do not share a prescription with contacts; each person may need their own assessment and advice.

When is it an emergency?

Call 000 for breathing pauses, blue colour, severe breathing difficulty, collapse or reduced consciousness. A young baby with possible whooping cough needs urgent medical assessment. Telehealth may help identify the right care pathway, but should not delay direct assessment of a baby or anyone with significant breathing problems. Seek early advice after a relevant exposure even before severe symptoms develop.

Where to go next

Read Doccio information about cold and flu to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.