Pertussis "Whooping Cough" Guide
- Natalie Wescott
- Jul 20
- 10 min read
Updated: Jul 23
This is not medical advice.
It is always best to consult with your personal, trusted provider.
This also is not a DTaP vaccine guide. This is purely an educational post about pertussis.
Pertussis
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough or the “100-day cough,” is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It primarily affects the respiratory system, leading to violent coughing fits that can be both exhausting and alarming.
Pertussis tends to follow a distinct progression through three stages: the Catarrhal Stage, the Paroxysmal Stage, and the Convalescent Stage. Each stage presents unique symptoms, and understanding these stages can help individuals identify the infection early and seek appropriate care.
Stages of Whooping Cough
Catarrhal Stage (Weeks 1–2)
The first stage of pertussis resembles a common cold and often goes unnoticed or misdiagnosed. During this period, individuals experience mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, fatigue, low-grade fever, and a light, occasional cough. At this point, the infection is highly contagious, as it spreads easily through respiratory droplets. Although these symptoms can seem trivial, the disease is starting to take hold, and early detection can be critical for minimizing the spread.
Paroxysmal Stage (Weeks 2–6 or longer)
This is the stage most associated with the dramatic and unmistakable symptoms of pertussis. The cough becomes severe and occurs in violent, uncontrollable fits that can last for several minutes. These fits often end with a characteristic “whooping” sound as the individual gasps for breath after coughing. Vomiting, facial redness or cyanosis (bluish skin), and extreme exhaustion are common during this stage. This stage is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, who may experience difficulty breathing, dehydration, and malnutrition due to the intensity of the cough.
Convalescent Stage (Weeks to Months)
The final stage of whooping cough is marked by a gradual improvement in symptoms. The intense coughing fits begin to subside, though milder coughing may persist for weeks or even months. In this stage, individuals may still experience some cough triggers from activity, cold air, or other infections. Though no longer contagious, the lingering cough can be frustrating and can take a significant toll on an individual’s well-being.
Pertussis Complications
Infants and Young Children:
Infants under three months of age are the most vulnerable to severe complications from pertussis. Approximately 50% of these infants will require hospitalization, often needing supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation. The mortality rate for infants with pertussis ranges from 1-3%, with the rate for all infants falling around 0.7%. In contrast to older children, infants may not develop the characteristic coughing fits, but rather experience pauses in breathing, known as apnea. These pauses can lead to dangerously low oxygen levels and, in some cases, seizures. As such, early recognition and prompt medical intervention are critical for minimizing risks to infants.
Children, Teens, and Adults:
Older children, teens, and adults may develop pertussis, but their symptoms are often milder and may lack the signature "whoop." This can make the illness harder to recognize, especially in those who have received the pertussis vaccine, which may mitigate the severity of symptoms. This is why receiving the pertussis vaccine prior to meeting newborns (which is often a common recommendation) is actually more dangerous for the baby.
While serious complications are less common in these groups, they can still occur, leading to issues such as lung collapse, bleeding (in the eyes or nose), hernias, and even fainting spells. In some cases, prolonged coughing can cause rib fractures or slipped spinal discs due to the intense force of the cough.
Pertussis Stats
The incidence of pertussis generally follows a cyclical pattern, with peaks occurring every 3-5 years. For example, in 2015, the U.S. saw 20,762 reported cases of pertussis. This number dropped significantly during the quarantine period of 2020, with only 2,116 cases reported. However, the numbers began to rise again in 2023, with 7,063 cases reported, illustrating the continued circulation of the disease despite preventive measures. These fluctuations highlight the unpredictable nature of pertussis outbreaks and emphasize the importance of ongoing vigilance in communities.
Contracting Pertussis: The Benefits of Natural Immunity
Although a diagnosis of pertussis can be scary, especially for young children, let’s look at what the studies have to say about the lifetime benefits after this diagnosis
Decreased Cancer Risk
One study “consistently revealed a lower cancer risk for patients with a history of FICD (febrile infectious childhood disease). The strongest associations were found between patients with non-breast cancers and rubella, respectively chickenpox. A strong association was also found with the overall number of FICD both 'classical' (measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, scarlet-fever and chickenpox) and 'other'.”
In other words - People who experienced a fever-causing infectious disease in childhood (such as pertussis) have a lower cancer rate (for all cancers except breast).
Prolonged Immunity
Researchers based at the University of Michigan and the University of New Mexico found that pertussis immunity from natural infection can last at least 30 years and potentially up to 70 years, much longer than previously believed (4-20 years). The study also suggests that people whose immunity has waned rarely become infected again and may even have their immunity boosted by re-exposure.
Source: Whooping cough immunity lasts longer than previously thought | ScienceDaily
Antibiotics for Whooping Cough
Antibiotics are most effective when administered during the early stages of pertussis. They can help reduce the length of the illness and prevent its spread to others. Unfortunately, because the initial symptoms often resemble a common cold, early detection is rare. However, during outbreaks or known exposure, healthcare providers are more likely to test for pertussis, allowing for early intervention.
In the later stages of whooping cough, when the characteristic "whoop" appears, antibiotics are less effective in alleviating symptoms. However, they can still be beneficial in reducing the spread of the bacteria. Pertussis is highly contagious for at least three weeks, but antibiotics can reduce this window to just five days, offering a faster path to recovery for the community.
Mitigating Antibiotic Symptoms
Taking antibiotics can often disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to digestive discomfort and potentially triggering an overgrowth of yeast. To mitigate these effects, add in a probiotic such as Florastor. Florastor specifically is a probiotic that is resistant to most common antibiotics and has kid and adult versions. Probiotics helps replenish good gut bacteria and restore gut balance, especially during antibiotic treatment.
Also consider taking scutellaria supreme to help mitigate yeast overgrowth. Scutellaria (chinese skullcap) helps to enhance the effectiveness of the antibiotic (preventing antibiotic resistance) and can help reduce yeast overgrowth.
Scutellaira supreme also has the ability to enhance antibiotic effectiveness which can further shorten illness duration.
Additionally, consuming foods rich in probiotics can further support gut health. Examples are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso.
Holistic Approaches to Whooping Cough Treatment
While antibiotics may be necessary in the early stages of pertussis, there are various natural remedies that can help ease symptoms during the later stages. It is always advisable to consult with a qualified natural health practitioner before implementing these treatments, as some herbs may interfere with medications or be unsuitable for certain individuals.
Click here for post on holistic remedies for respiratory illness
Tools to have at home:
Stethoscope
Click here for a great YouTube video on different lung sounds and what they may indicate. Remember, lung sounds are NOT diagnostic.
Oximeter
Normal readings: 94-100%; mildly low 90-94%
If below 90% along with other signs of respiratory distress, go to ER
Nebulizer
Nebulize Saline to help loosen up mucus
DIY saline: ½ tsp of sea salt in 8oz purified water
Technically not recommended as it can cause contamination in the nebulizer, but if you decide to go this route make sure you are using purified water NOT tap water.
Humidifier
Maintaining humidity in the range of 40-60% can also reduce transmission of pathogens.
High Dose Sodium Ascorbate (Vitamin C)
Sodium ascorbate, a form of vitamin C, has been shown to be an effective treatment against pertussis. As an antioxidant, it helps neutralize toxins in the blood and supports immune function by assisting immune cells in clearing the infection. While sodium ascorbate does not stop pertussis, it can alleviate symptoms by clearing toxins and reducing the severity of coughing.
Mucus Management
Mucus production increases as the body tries to expel the bacteria. Thinning and moving mucus out of the respiratory system is crucial. Steam inhalation, using a humidifier, staying well-hydrated, and drinking warm teas can all help loosen mucus to make it easier to be coughed up. This along with postural drainage is a great combo for mucus movement!
Click here for a great step-by-step instruction on postural drainage.
Manual Percussion
If your child is dealing with chest congestion, one supportive technique you can try at home is manual chest percussion. This involves gently clapping on your child’s back and chest using a cupped hand and a relaxed wrist. The cupping creates a pocket of air that vibrates through the chest, helping to loosen mucus in the lungs and move it toward the larger airways, where it can be more easily coughed up or cleared. It’s most effective when paired with hydration and movement. Always be gentle, avoid the spine and ribs, and stop if your child is uncomfortable.
Click here for a demonstrative video on how to do manual percussion!
Nebulized Saline
Nebulizing saline can help keep airways moist and reduce mucus congestion. Premade saline is widely available, but if making it at home, ensure the water is purified to avoid contamination. Saline nebulization can help reduce coughing and improve airflow in the lungs.
Humidifier/Vaporizer
Keeping the air humid helps to keep airways moist and reduce congestion. This is especially important at night. When sick, keep a humidifier running in the sleep space near the bed and in any other highly used areas (like on the couch)
Onion by the bed (or in socks!)
Slice a raw onion and put it in a bowl near their head while they sleep — it helps pull toxins from the air and ease congestion.
For older kids, try onion slices in socks overnight.
Garlic on the feet
Crush a clove, mix with olive oil, and rub it on the bottoms of baby’s feet. Cover with socks. Garlic is antimicrobial and absorbs through the skin.
Always dilute — raw garlic can irritate skin.
Prop up the mattress
Place a towel or wedge under the head of the mattress to elevate it slightly. Helps snot drain instead of pooling in sinuses or lungs. Be cautious with doing this in infants as they cannot control their head to protect their airway.
Steam sessions in the shower
Run hot water, shut the bathroom door and sit in the steam with your kiddo for 10–15 minutes. Add a drop of eucalyptus or thyme oil on the floor outside the tub for extra support (skip oils for babies under 6 months).
By combining conventional and holistic treatments, individuals with pertussis can manage their symptoms more effectively, reduce the duration of the illness, and speed up recovery.
Herbal Treatments
Thyme:
Common thyme is one of the most frequently recommended herbs for easing symptoms of whooping cough. Studies suggest it may help relax the airways and possibly protect the lungs from damage caused by pertussis toxins (5,6). While there’s no direct research confirming its effectiveness against Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria behind whooping cough, it does have natural antibacterial properties (7).
Wild Cherry Bark:
Wild cherry bark helps open up the lower respiratory system, and move mucus up while drying it out. It has calming and nervine properties, which can help ease coughing spells, especially at night. It is also cooling to sore and inflamed tissues in the sinuses and throat. You can take this as a tea, tincture, or make your own cherry bark syrup.
Mullein:
Mullein leaf can help relieve inflammation and coughing spells by helping move stuck congestion. This is a great herb for lung issues, specifically.
Lobelia:
Lobelia is a powerful herb traditionally used to support the respiratory system. It may help ease coughing spasms, loosen mucus, and stimulate breathing during whooping cough. Due to its potency, it must be used in very small, precise doses—especially in children—and should never be given to infants without professional guidance. It's typically used as a tincture and often paired with other calming herbs.
Pulmonaria:
Pulmonaria, or lungwort, is a gentle herb traditionally used to support lung health. For whooping cough, it may help soothe irritated airways, ease spasmodic coughing, and loosen mucus. It's often included in respiratory blends, especially for children, due to its mild and soothing nature.
Sage: helps dry up excess mucus and fights off viruses and bacteria. It’s especially helpful for wet coughs, sinus congestion and sore throats
Homeopathy for Whooping Cough
Pertussinum & drosera combo: pertussinum 30C (1x/week) combined with drosera 6C (3x/day) effective against the intensity and duration of whooping cough. *pertussinum is 3rd party or rx only
Bryonia: Harsh, dry cough with increased thirst
Cuprum: cough ends in a gasp or whoop; choking, rigidity, or convulsions during a coughing spell.
Ipecac: persistent, violent, cough fits. Wet-sounding cough but non-productive
Hepar sulphuricum: late-stage pertussis with wheezing and dry cough
Phosphorus: dry cough with chest pain
Aconite: hoarse, dry cough with thirst and restlessness
Spongia: harsh cough worse when lying down (great for croup, too)
Non-Medicated Cough Support
Non-Medicated Cough Syrups
Earthley Cough Be Gone (6mo+) - Natalie10off for 10% off
Homeopathy & Tinctures for Congestion
Pyrogenium for Nasal Congestion
Camphora for the onset of the common cold
Oscillococcinum for FLU like symptoms (2yrs and up)
Kids Cold Crush Genexa (4yr-11)
Earthley Feel Better Fast - Natalie10off for 10% off website
Chest Rubs
A Note on Cough Suppressants
In general, coughing serves a purpose in the body's natural healing process. A productive (wet) cough is your body's way of clearing out mucus, pathogens, and debris from the lungs and airways. Suppressing that natural reflex can trap mucus in the lungs, increasing the risk of infection like pneumonia or bronchitis & prolonging the illness.
However, whooping cough can wear you out quickly, so it may be necessary (sparingly) in order to get the rest needed for your body to heal - especially at night.
Cough suppressants are typically not recommended for babies. The FDA advises against OTC cough and cold medicines in infants under 2, while others recommend it against children under 4.
Fevers
Whooping cough can cause mild fever in the early stages. Click here for my fever guide!
Immune Health
Supporting the immune system during illness is one of the most important things you can do. Click here for my Immune Support Guide!
When to Seek Medical Treatment (signs of respiratory distress)
struggling to breathe
apnea (long pauses in breathing)
inhalation with a whooping sound
turning blue after coughing
blue lips or extremities
lethargy
loud wheezing
low pulse ox (below 90%)
excessive drooling and inability to swallow
not able to cry or talk from difficulty breathing
when your mom gut tells you something is wrong
Pertussis can be scary, but hopefully this guide can help you understand the progress of disease and how to support healing holistically!
Link to Instagram post on pertussis: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMYDKRgOP3M/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
As always, this is not medical advice!
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