Whooping cough is commonly associated with childhood, but adults can also be impacted by this highly contagious respiratory illness leading to potentially serious complications.
David Hill, M.D.
Board of Directors Chair, American Lung Association
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is characterized by an intense, often violent cough causing a “whooping” sound, along with difficulty breathing. The illness can affect people of all ages, but it most commonly occurs in young children, with infants most at risk for hospitalization. However, adults are also at risk of severe complications, especially if they have a lung disease, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or an immunocompromising condition. Whooping cough can worsen these underlying conditions, potentially leading to hospitalization.
In 2024, whooping cough cases increased in the United States. As of December 14, whooping cough cases were six times higher compared to the same week in 2023, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), with the number of cases at the highest level in more than a decade.
Whooping cough is caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. It is easily spread from person to person through the air from coughing and sneezing, with symptoms developing within five to 10 days after exposure. The illness starts out like the common cold with a runny nose, nasal congestion, fever, and/or fatigue, and it can then quickly progress to difficulty breathing and a severe cough. In adults, the cough can be so intense that it can cause loss of bladder control, vomiting, and rib fractures. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
The intense cough, which is characteristic of whooping cough, is notable for how long it persists. In Chinese, whooping cough is called bǎirìké, which translates to “the 100-day cough.” It is not unusual for patients to have persistent symptoms for three or more months.
Vaccination and treatment
Whooping cough vaccination is recommended for everyone, and it is the best way to help prevent severe complications from the disease. However, only 44% of adults reportedly received the vaccine in the past 10 years. The pertussis (DTaP or Tdap) vaccine is widely available and provides protection from whooping cough as well as tetanus and diphtheria. Even if you have previously received the pertussis vaccine, the CDC may recommend an additional dose. As newborns are susceptible, it is recommended that siblings, grandparents, and other caregivers who are not up to date on their vaccine receive one at least two weeks prior to meeting the baby.
Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are important to minimize the risk of complications. In addition, adults diagnosed with whooping cough should:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Eat small, frequent meals to help prevent vomiting
- Remove irritants from the home that could trigger coughing, such as smoke, dust, and chemical fumes
Unfortunately, over-the-counter cough medicine does not ease whooping cough symptoms.
Prevention methods
To avoid spreading the disease to friends and family, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and stay at home and away from work and social gatherings until symptoms subside.
Adults, especially those living with asthma, COPD, or an immunocompromising condition, should take proactive measures to prevent contracting whooping cough this year and beyond. These include maintaining healthy infection control habits, discussing a plan should you be exposed to someone with whooping cough, and most importantly, checking with your doctor to confirm that you are up-to-date on the pertussis vaccine. If you have symptoms, seek immediate medical care.
