What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Pertussis (Whooping Cough) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for pertussis, also known as whooping cough, parents and caregivers will receive guidance on how to care for the child at home and when to seek further medical help. Pertussis is a contagious respiratory infection that causes severe coughing fits. The healthcare provider may recommend treatments such as antibiotics, supportive care, and monitoring symptoms closely. Follow-up care is important to ensure the child recovers safely and to prevent spreading the infection to others. Telemedicine can help identify symptoms and provide advice but may not replace in-person exams if the child’s condition worsens. Knowing the warning signs that require urgent care, such as difficulty breathing or dehydration, is critical. This guide helps families understand what to expect after the telemedicine visit and how to keep their child comfortable and safe.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Bluish color around lips or face — call emergency services right away.
• Inability to drink fluids or signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, fewer wet diapers) — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage for pertussis.
• Providing guidance on home care and infection control.
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate.
• Scheduling follow-up virtual visits to monitor progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic tests (e.g., throat cultures).
• Managing severe respiratory distress or complications.
• Administering emergency treatments or hospitalization decisions.

Understanding Pertussis and Its Treatment

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that causes intense coughing fits. It spreads easily from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Treatment often includes antibiotics to reduce the infection and prevent spreading it to others. Supportive care, like keeping the child hydrated and resting, is also important. Your healthcare provider will explain how to manage symptoms and what to watch for during recovery.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, you may receive a prescription for antibiotics if pertussis is suspected or confirmed. The healthcare provider will give advice on how to care for your child at home, including how to manage coughing fits and when to seek emergency care. They may also recommend follow-up appointments, either virtually or in person, to monitor your child’s progress.

Monitoring Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Watch your child closely for signs of worsening illness. If your child has trouble breathing, turns blue around the lips, is not drinking enough fluids, or has seizures, seek emergency care immediately. These are serious symptoms that require prompt medical attention. Keep track of coughing episodes and any new symptoms to report during follow-up visits.

Preventing Spread to Others

Pertussis is highly contagious. Keep your child away from others, especially infants and people with weakened immune systems, until they have completed at least five days of antibiotic treatment. Practice good hand hygiene and cover coughs and sneezes to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

How Telemedicine Helps and Its Limits

Telemedicine allows you to consult with healthcare providers quickly and safely from home. It is useful for initial assessment, guidance, and follow-up care. However, telemedicine cannot perform physical exams or tests that may be necessary. If your child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve, an in-person visit may be needed for further evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child’s symptoms and history ready to discuss.
• List any medications your child is currently taking.
• Prepare to describe the severity and frequency of coughing fits.
• Ensure a quiet space with good internet connection for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a thermometer and pulse oximeter (if available) to provide vital signs if asked.

After your tele-visit

• Administer prescribed antibiotics as directed.
• Keep your child well-hydrated and rested.
• Monitor symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Isolate your child to prevent spreading pertussis to others.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

How long does pertussis last in children?

Pertussis symptoms often last several weeks, sometimes up to 6 to 10 weeks. The intense coughing fits usually improve gradually with treatment and time.

Can my child go back to school after treatment?

Children can usually return to school after completing at least five days of antibiotic treatment and once they are feeling well enough. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and local guidelines.

Is pertussis vaccine effective?

Yes, vaccines help protect against pertussis, though no vaccine is 100% effective. Vaccination reduces the severity of illness and helps prevent outbreaks.

What should I do if my child’s cough gets worse?

If coughing worsens, or if your child shows signs of breathing difficulty, blue lips, or dehydration, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for pertussis?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial advice and follow-up but cannot replace physical exams or urgent care needed in severe cases.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s condition worsens or you have concerns, seek prompt medical attention from a healthcare professional.