How to prepare for a video visit about Pertussis (Whooping Cough) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory infection that often affects children. It causes severe coughing spells that can make it hard to breathe, eat, or sleep. Preparing for a video visit about pertussis can help you share important information with your healthcare provider and get the best advice. During the visit, your provider will ask about symptoms, vaccination history, and possible exposure to others with pertussis. They may guide you on care at home or whether your child needs urgent medical attention. This guide helps you get ready for the video visit, understand when to seek emergency care, and know what telemedicine can and cannot do for pertussis. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but is not a substitute for in-person care when your child’s condition is severe or worsening.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or noisy, fast breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child’s lips, face, or fingertips turn blue — call emergency services right away.
• Child cannot keep fluids down due to severe coughing or is showing signs of dehydration — get urgent medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing symptoms and medical history related to pertussis.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Determining if urgent in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests.
• Administering vaccines or medications.
• Managing severe respiratory distress or emergencies.

What is Pertussis (Whooping Cough)?

Pertussis is a bacterial infection that causes long, severe coughing fits. It spreads easily through coughing or sneezing. Young children and infants are especially at risk for serious illness. Symptoms often start like a common cold but progress to intense coughing spells that may end with a "whooping" sound when breathing in. Vaccination helps prevent pertussis but does not always fully protect against it.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather important information to share with your healthcare provider:

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may observe your child's breathing and cough during the video. Based on this, they might:

Be honest and clear about all symptoms and concerns.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

If your child shows any of the following signs, seek emergency care immediately:

These are serious signs that require prompt in-person evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help With Pertussis

Telemedicine can:

However, telemedicine cannot:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are.
• Gather your child's vaccination records.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Check that your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Have a list of any medications your child is currently taking.
• Be ready to describe any recent exposures to people with cough or respiratory illness.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on symptom management and medications.
• Monitor your child closely for any worsening symptoms or red flags.
• Keep track of your child’s fluid intake and ability to eat or drink.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Seek immediate care if emergency signs develop after the visit.

FAQs

What causes pertussis?

Pertussis is caused by a bacterium called *Bordetella pertussis*. It spreads easily through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Can my child get pertussis even if vaccinated?

Yes, although vaccination greatly reduces the risk and severity of pertussis, it is still possible for vaccinated children to get the infection.

How is pertussis treated?

Treatment often includes antibiotics to help reduce the spread of bacteria and supportive care to manage symptoms. Early treatment is important.

Is pertussis contagious?

Yes, pertussis is highly contagious, especially in the early stages before coughing starts and during the first few weeks of illness.

When should I call the doctor or seek emergency care?

Call your healthcare provider if your child has a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or if you notice any red flag signs like blue lips or inability to drink fluids. Seek emergency care immediately if severe breathing problems occur.

Sources

1. Pertussis (Whooping Cough) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Whooping Cough (Pertussis) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Pertussis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Pertussis (Whooping Cough) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child’s symptoms are severe or worsening, seek immediate medical attention.