A significant number will present with cyanosis and apneic spells. Vaccinated adults usually only develop a prolonged bronchitis without a whoop. Unvaccinated adults are more likely to have whooping and post-tussive emesis. On average they wait a median of 3 wk before seeking treatment. Hypoxia should be considered.
Dehydration is common on presentation.
Fever over 39 degrees C is rare. Bordetella pertussis . Bordetella parapertussis and Bordetella bronchiseptica are less common and produce a similar but milder clinical illness. Contact with an infected person. In adults, especially those vaccinated, this finding is rare.