Until approved booster vaccination for pertussis is available to protect older children and adults, prompt diagnosis and treatment of cases and prophylaxis of contacts are the primary methods of limiting transmission. Further information on pertussis control can be found in the ISDH Recommended Pertussis Control Measures. Pertussis is an acute respiratory infection caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. The illness begins with an onset of mild upper respiratory symptoms, which progresses after about a week to a paroxysmal cough. Coughing may last several weeks, even following appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Fever is usually minimal or absent.
Transmission is primarily through direct contact with respiratory secretions of an infected person. The incubation period is usually 7-10 days, but can extend to 21 days on rare occasions.