Childhood Conditions: Whooping Cough

Question 1

Whooping cough initial symptoms

Answer 1

• runny nose
• watery eyes
• sore throat
• Slight fever

Question 2

Whooping cough description

Answer 2

• cough expels thick mucus and may vomit
• ‘whoop’ between coughs gasping for air
• common at night

Question 3

Whooping Cough referrals

Answer 3

• refer all cases
• A&E if breathing problems
  (rapid swallow of breath, long period of breathlessness, choking)

Question 4

OTC symptomatic treatment of whooping cough

Answer 4

• fever
  (paracetamol / ibuprofen)

Question 5

Whooping cough advice

Answer 5

• very contagious
  (stay away from school 5 days after starting antibiotics)
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing/sneezing