Pertussis, or more commonly known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that can be prevented with a vaccine or treated with antibiotics. Although it is highly contagious and often affects children who are too young to receive the vaccine, treatment for pertussis can still be effective.
Treating Pertussis
Antibiotics commonly used to treat pertussis include:
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Erythromycin
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Azithromycin
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Clarithromycin
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Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
Antibiotics are most effective when taken within three weeks after acquiring pertussis.
Preventive Measures
Vaccinations are usually effective against preventing pertussis. Diphtheria and tetanus is usually administered as early as two months of age, with a series of booster shots thereafter.
Pertussis is highly contagious, so victims should be kept away from other people and anyone caring for an infant should be vaccinated.
A humidifier can also decrease the risk of whooping cough, as can an avoidance of dust, smoke, and chemical fumes.
What to Do Before Seeing a Medical Professional
Until you can get your child professional medical help, there are a few things you can do treat the symptoms of pertussis at home. Have them drink plenty of fluids to keep their throat lubricated. Give them small, frequent meals to prevent vomiting. A cool mist vaporizer can loosen secretions and soothe the cough.
Treatment of Severe Cases
Extreme cases of pertussis or ones that are showing resistance to antibiotics can sometimes result in hospitalization and the insertion of a breathing tube.
What’s Not Recommended
Cough medicine is generally not recommended to treat pertussis. Over-the-counter cough medicine is strong enough for a common cold or cough but is typically not equipped to fight off pertussis. And prescription-strength medication is often too strong for young children, who are the most frequent victims of pertussis.
Testing for Pertussis
Testing for pertussis can consist of an examination, a nose or throat culture and test, blood tests, or a chest x-ray.
If you or one of your young ones are suffering from a severe cough that share symptoms of pertussis, come to FastMed and get the treatment you need.
About FastMed
FastMed is a leading provider of high-quality, convenient, affordable, and compassionate healthcare in 34 counties across North Carolina. FastMed serves both urban and rural communities across the state with a wide range of care options, including preventive, telemedicine, occupational health, and primary and urgent care. FastMed is one of the few urgent care providers in the nation that has earned The Joint Commission’s coveted Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety, and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information, visit www.fastmed.com.