What are the symptoms of pertussis?

The first symptoms of whooping cough are similar to those of a common cold:

  • Low-grade fever
  • Mild cough
  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing


After about 1 to 2 weeks, the dry, irritating cough evolves into coughing spells. During a coughing spell, which can last for more than a minute, the child may turn red or purple. At the end of a spell, the child may make a characteristic whooping sound when breathing in or may vomit. Between spells, the child usually feels well.

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1. What is pertussis?
2. Who is most at risk for pertussis?
3. What are the symptoms of pertussis?
4. How do I protect my baby from pertussis?
5. Why is TdaP for new mothers important?
6. How do I get help for my child?