Paediatrics, by video or in person
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
- Cold-like symptoms for the first week or two
- Coughing fits that last a minute or more, often worse at night
- A whoop when breathing in after a coughing fit
- Vomiting after coughing
- Going red or blue in the face during fits
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a bacterial infection of the airways that spreads easily through coughs and sneezes. It starts like a cold, then after a week or two causes long fits of coughing, often followed by a sharp breath in that makes a whooping sound, and sometimes vomiting. Young babies may not whoop at all; instead they can go red or blue, or stop breathing for a few seconds. The cough can last for weeks. It is most dangerous for babies under six months. The pentavalent vaccine given in the national schedule protects against it.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Cold-like symptoms for the first week or two
- Coughing fits that last a minute or more, often worse at night
- A whoop when breathing in after a coughing fit
- Vomiting after coughing
- Going red or blue in the face during fits
- In young babies: pauses in breathing, without a whoop
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you think your child has whooping cough, especially if there is a young baby in the home, because antibiotics given early reduce spread and help protect others. Go to a hospital emergency department now if a baby has pauses in breathing, turns blue or grey, struggles to breathe, cannot feed, or if any child has a fit or becomes very drowsy.
Treatment options
- Antibiotics, which stop the spread to others when started early
- Hospital care for young babies, with oxygen and feeding support if needed
- Small, frequent feeds and plenty of fluids
- Antibiotics for close contacts in some cases, as a doctor advises
- Vaccination, including in pregnancy where it is offered, to protect newborns
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Has my vaccinated child got whooping cough?
It is possible, though vaccinated children usually have a milder illness. Protection fades over the years, which is why older children and adults can pass it to babies.
How long does the cough last?
It can last for many weeks, even after the infection has cleared. Antibiotics do not shorten the cough once it has set in, but they stop your child being infectious.
How long should my child stay home?
Until they have had two days of antibiotics, or three weeks from the start of the coughing fits if they have not had antibiotics.
Need Help?
A children's doctor on a video call, who tells you whether your child needs to be examined in person.
See a paediatrician by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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