Whooping cough Flashcards
(12 cards)
What bacterium typically causes whooping cough?
Bordetella pertussis
How is whooping cough transmitted?
Via respiratory secretions.
What is the incubation period for whooping cough?
Approximately 7–10 days.
How long is a person with untreated whooping cough infectious from the onset of coughing?
21 days.
What is the primary method of preventing whooping cough?
Vaccination - but does not cover lifelong protection.
Why is whooping cough particularly dangerous in infants under 6 months?
They may have atypical symptoms and are at high risk for severe illness or death.
When should whooping cough be suspected?
Acute cough ≥14 days plus paroxysmal cough, whoop, post-tussive vomiting, or apnoea in infants; or known contact with a confirmed case.
Within how many days must suspected whooping cough be reported to Public Health England?
Within 3 days.
What is the treatment window for antibiotics after cough onset?
Within 14 days (or 21 days for priority contacts).
What macrolide antibiotic is preferred for infants under 1 month?
Clarithromycin (azithromycin can be used with caution).
What antibiotic is first-line for pregnant women with whooping cough?
Erythromycin.
When can children return to school or nursery after starting antibiotics?
After 48 hours of antibiotic treatment.
