Whooping cough symptoms in adults – All you need to know

Overview

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that often begins with symptoms similar to a common cold. Across Australia, cases have been increasing, and many adults may overlook the early signs because the symptoms can appear mild. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the spread to vulnerable individuals.

What is whooping cough (pertussis)?

Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Adults may not always produce the classic “whoop” sound and often experience milder or atypical symptoms, which can make early detection more difficult.

Symptoms in catarrhal stage

The initial catarrhal stage (week 1–2) often resembles a common cold:

• Runny or congested nose
• Mild throat discomfort
• Slight fever
• A mild cough that gradually worsens
• Feeling tired or lethargic

Tip: Many adults do not realise they have pertussis during this phase, which can lead to unintentional transmission.

Symptoms of paroxysmal stage

During the paroxysmal stage (typically week 2 onward), the cough becomes more severe:

• Intense coughing fits
• Coughing in rapid, repeated bursts
• A “whooping” sound when breathing in (less common in adults)
• Vomiting after coughing episodes
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain caused by persistent coughing
• Extreme tiredness after coughing fits
• Coughing that tends to worsen at night

Symptoms: adults vs children

How long does whooping cough last?

Whooping cough usually develops in three stages:

• Catarrhal stage: 1–2 weeks
• Paroxysmal stage: 2–6 weeks
• Convalescent stage: 2–3 weeks (the cough gradually improves)

Overall, the illness may last 6–10 weeks and is sometimes referred to as the “100-day cough.”

When to see a GP

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• A cough that lasts longer than 2 weeks
• Coughing fits that interfere with sleep or breathing
• Vomiting after coughing
• Known exposure to someone diagnosed with pertussis
• You are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or work with infants

How whooping cough is tested

A GP or clinic may perform diagnostic testing, which can include:

• Nasal or throat swabs (PCR test)
• Blood tests (serology), particularly in later stages

Treatment

Management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing the spread of infection.

• Antibiotics (most effective when given early)
• Rest and adequate hydration
• Avoiding smoke or other airway irritants
• Cough medications generally provide limited relief
• Staying at home until at least 5 days of antibiotic treatment are completed

Symptoms – seek urgent medical help

Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

• Trouble breathing
• Bluish or discoloured lips
• Severe chest pain
• Signs of dehydration
• Coughing up blood

Preventing whooping cough

• Vaccination – an adult booster is recommended every 10 years
• Pregnant women should receive the Tdap vaccine during every pregnancy
• Avoid close contact with infants if feeling unwell
• Practise good hand hygiene and consider wearing a mask when symptomatic

Who’s most at risk?

• Unvaccinated adults
• People with weakened immune systems
• Smokers
• Adults who frequently interact with babies or older adults
• Healthcare and childcare workers

How Hola Health can help

• Same-day telehealth appointments with Australian GPs
• Assessment and guidance regarding testing
• Prescriptions for antibiotics when appropriate
• Medical certificates for work or school if required
• Advice on isolation and preventing further spread

Conclusion

Whooping cough is a highly contagious infection that can become serious, particularly for infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Early diagnosis, timely antibiotic treatment, and preventive measures such as vaccination are key to managing the illness and protecting others. If symptoms worsen or breathing becomes difficult, seek medical care immediately.

FAQs

Can adults get whooping cough even if they’ve been vaccinated?

Yes. Immunity from vaccination can decrease over time, which is why booster vaccinations are recommended.

How long is someone with whooping cough contagious?

People are usually contagious until they have completed at least 5 days of antibiotics, or up to 3 weeks if untreated.

Is whooping cough serious for adults?

It can be serious, particularly for individuals with chronic lung disease, weakened immunity, or other health conditions.

Does whooping cough always produce the whooping sound?

No. Many adults with pertussis do not develop the classic “whooping” sound.

How can I differentiate between pertussis and a regular cough?

Pertussis often causes severe coughing fits that may lead to vomiting or difficulty breathing.

Can whooping cough recur?

Yes. Although less common, reinfection can occur because immunity from previous infection may decrease over time.