People with asthma and COPD have a greater risk of contracting whooping cough and developing complications. Individuals with asthma may develop more severe symptoms if they contract the whooping cough. Whooping cough can also worsen asthma control, even months after diagnosis. A whooping cough in may also increase the risk of developing asthma later in life.  

Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date and follow all the prevention measures listed above to protect yourself. 

It is important to note that those with asthma, COPD, are pregnant or 65 years of age or older), may be prescribed antibiotics up to the first six weeks of symptoms. Antibiotics are not helpful after six weeks of symptoms for anyone.