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Communicable Diseases Agency

Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract caused by Bordetella pertussis.

Last updated 7 November 2025

What is pertussis?

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract caused by Bordetella pertussis. It is named “whooping cough” because it presents with sudden bouts of cough followed by a characteristic “whooping” sound when breathing in. The disease occurs worldwide.

How is pertussis transmitted?

Pertussis is primarily transmitted through direct deposition of infectious respiratory particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted via contact with contaminated surfaces such as when a person touches these contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

The incubation period is typically 9 to 10 days, ranging from 6 to 20 days.

What are the symptoms of pertussis?

From week 1 to 2, symptoms include having a runny or stuffy nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever. From week 2 to 6 onwards, there would be increased bouts of cough with spells of repetitive dry cough followed by a sudden effort upon breathing in (whoop). During recovery, the frequency and severity of coughing episodes reduces. The cough may last for 8 weeks.

Individuals who have not been fully vaccinated are susceptible, and symptoms tend to be more severe in individuals who have not been vaccinated at all.

Pertussis infection can lead to complications, particularly pneumonia (lung infection) in infants and older adults. In severe cases, infants may show signs such as poor feeding, irritability and unusual tiredness, while breathing difficulties can progress to respiratory distress. Their skin or mouth will also develop a blue discolouration due to low oxygen levels in the body.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors include:

  • Persons who are partially vaccinated or unvaccinated against pertussis

  • Children below 1 year of age

  • Persons with weakened immune systems

How is pertussis treated?

Patients are given antibiotics to treat the infection. Other treatments include those that manage and relieve the symptoms of the disease.

How to prevent pertussis?

Vaccination is the most effective preventive measure for pertussis. The pertussis vaccine is recommended under the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS).

Other preventive measures include:

  • Practise good personal hygiene at all times.

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirty from coughing or sneezing.

  • Avoid touching your face, including eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands after coughing.

  • Avoid sharing of food/drinks or eating utensils.

  • Wear a mask and seeking medical attention promptly when unwell.

Please refer to Health advice for travellers for additional precautions to take when travelling.