Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Mother holding her baby while lying in bed
About
Learn about whooping cough: what it is and how to prevent it.
Learn More
A poster promoting Tdap vaccination during whooping cough outbreaks.
Outbreaks
Whooping cough cases are on the rise in 2024.
Woman feeling ill on the sofa at home.
Symptoms
See a healthcare provider if you have whooping cough symptoms.
A healthcare provider talks with a pregnant patient
Vaccination
CDC recommends whooping cough vaccination for people of all ages.

Healthcare providers

A clinician consults with a female patient.
Clinical Overview
Pertussis is an acute infectious disease that’s common in the United States.
A graphic showing common features of infant pertussis: apnea, coryza, low-grade fever, exhaustion, minimal coughing, posttussive vomiting, and paroxysms, but no "whoop."
Clinical Features
The distinctive cough and “whoop” of pertussis isn't always present.
Closeup of a pharmacist holding a bottle of pills in her hand.
Treatment
Guidance on treatment of pertussis for people of all ages.

Public health professionals

A picture of a young girl and baby surrounded by their parents and grandparents.
Guidance for Health Departments
Guidance on public health strategies to prevent pertussis infection.
An illustration of generic data
Surveillance
CDC tracks pertussis cases through a national system and enhanced surveillance activities.
  • Lab Testing
    Several test methods can be used to diagnose pertussis.
  • Pertussis and Diphtheria Lab
    CDC has a laboratory focused on innovative research related to pertussis and diphtheria.
  • Pertussis Globally
    Pertussis remains one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable deaths worldwide.