Pertussis is highly contagious and is transmitted by close contact via droplets from the respiratory tract of infected individuals. Infected persons are considered non-infectious five days after starting antibiotic treatment. Pertussis begins with a cold-like stage characterized by a mild cough, redness of the eyes, running nose, and low-grade fever. This stage lasts one to two weeks. The disease then enters a second stage that lasts two to four weeks in which the coughing comes in multiple, exhausting bursts. Pertussis is most dangerous to children under the age of two.

Anyone who suspects that someone in their household may have pertussis should consult their family physician. Treatment for the illness is by antibiotic.

Children who are diagnosed with pertussis may not return to school until they receive five full days of antibiotics. Also, all family members should receive antibiotics for prevention.

Complete pertussis immunization normally prevents this disease. Sometimes pertussis will infect immunized children, but symptoms will usually be milder than in unimmunized children. It is recommended that parents check the immunization status of all family members and make sure they are up-to-date for DTaP (a pertussis containing vaccine for persons less than seven years of age) or Tdap (a pertussis booster vaccine for persons 10-64 years of age). A physician or the local health department should be able to assist parents in determining if vaccination is needed for any of your family members.

More information about this illness is available at the Indiana State Department of Health website.