Symptoms appear eight to ten days after exposure. Contagious until treated and nits are gone. Siblings may continue to go to school or daycare as long as they are not infected. Cold-like symptoms with irritating cough. Coughing is prolonged and severe, and it may be characterized by a high-pitched whoop or crowing.
Symptoms appear seven to ten days after exposure.
Spread through direct or airborne contact with saliva, phlegm, or articles soiled by the sick child. Contagious for up to three weeks after start of cough or up to five days after antibiotics are started. After at least five days of antibiotic treatment, assuming child feels well. Siblings may continue to attend school or daycare as long as they are immunized or immune. If they have not been immunized, they may need a booster shot and antibiotic.