DocHeb
Veteran Member
The tests for pertussis are a little difficult to do and take a while for results. A simple stain of sputum/mucous won't help. The actual Bordetella Pertussis germ is a bit difficult to grow. Some places are using DNA testing, but not many labs do this. If the cough is over two weeks (+/-) a lot of physicians will treat with a medicine like erythromycin or azithromycin just to cover the possibility.
There are booster vaccinations designed for adults that can help protect against adult pertussis (adult whooping cough). I got mine last year.
Very helpful if you are around a lot of kids, or if there are people with decreased immune systems living with you (you don't want to bring it home to them.).