Pertussis (whooping cough)
Short dry cough, which gets worse and becomes a series of quick short coughs
ending in a “whoop” sound as child tries to get his breath. May have a fever at start.
See a doctor first for treatment.
- Give small frequent amounts of soft food and cool drinks, along with medication as prescribed by doctor (usually antibiotics).
- Other family members may also need to be given antibiotics by the doctor.
- Place child in sitting position for easier breathing.
- Keep away from others for five days from start of treatment, or two weeks after “whoop” starts. Exposed children under five not immunised should be kept home for two weeks or until after five days of antibiotics.
- For more information about Pertussis (whooping cough) and the available immunisations, visit myvaccination.com.au.