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Pertussis (Whooping cough)

What is pertussis and how is it spread?

Pertussis is a bacterial respiratory infection that can spread through infected droplets when a person with pertussis coughs or sneezes. The droplets do not travel far through the air but can infect persons nearby, who are within a few feet of the contagious person for prolonged periods.  The bacteria can also survive on surfaces for a few days.

Symptoms of pertussis:

• Persisting cough lasting > 1 week that tends to occur in fits
• Difficulty breathing during coughing
• Vomiting during or after coughing 

What if I develop symptoms?

• Don鈥檛 panic! This is cold and flu season; most coughs are not pertussis and will resolve on their own.
  Wear a well-fitted mask while around others
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid contact with infants, young children, and those you know have an immunocompromising condition
• If your cough is severe or lasts more than 1 week, contact us in Health Services or your home provider

Testing for pertussis:

• Testing may be recommended during a visit if you are experiencing symptoms consistent with pertussis, particularly if you have been exposed to a person with pertussis.
• If testing is recommended, a nasopharyngeal swab can be collected and sent out to a lab for testing. Results typically return in 3-4 days.
• If appointments are not available in Health Services, students will be directed to (include address, hours, that it is 5min from campus) 

Treatment:

• If you have tested positive for pertussis, been in very close contact with a person who has tested positive for pertussis and/or you are experiencing symptoms consistent with pertussis, treatment may be recommended.
• During a visit with a medical provider in Health Services, an antibiotic can be dispensed or a prescription can be sent to a local pharmacy of your choice.  

Isolation:

• If you are diagnosed with pertussis, you are considered contagious until you complete antibiotic treatment.
• During the 5-day treatment period, it is recommended that you isolate to prevent spread to others. This means not participating in in-person learning or eating in the dining hall.
• If isolation is recommended, please contact your professors directly to inform them that you will be missing class. The Office of Academic Advising (OAA) is also a resource if you need assistance contacting professors or support with academic absences.
• To avoid eating around others while isolating, you may get meals to go from the dining hall.

Please check back here for updates and contact us in Health Services with any questions.

updated 12/2024