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Warning-sign checks

Pertussis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if you or someone with you:

    • Has severe trouble breathing
    • Has repeated pauses in breathing
    • Develops blue, grey or very pale lips or skin
    • Has a seizure
    • Becomes difficult to wake or does not respond normally

    A baby with pauses in breathing, colour changes or feeding-related breathing problems needs emergency assessment even if there is little or no cough.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if a baby has been exposed to pertussis or develops a new cough.

    You should also seek timely advice if you are pregnant, live with a young baby, have a weakened immune system or have a cough after known exposure.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange medical assessment if coughing fits cause vomiting, fainting or difficulty drinking, or if the cough is getting worse rather than improving.

    Fever, chest pain, shortness of breath between coughing fits or signs of dehydration may suggest a complication.

    For routine follow-up, contact your healthcare service if a persistent cough is affecting sleep or daily life, if test results have not been explained, or if you need guidance about vaccination and returning to normal activities.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pertussis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.