Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It's most accurate in the first 3 weeks of cough.
Why it's done
- Coughing fits, a 'whoop,' or vomiting after coughing
- Exposure to someone with whooping cough
Getting ready and what happens
- None.
How the test is done
- A swab of the back of the nose.
What the results mean
Positive
Antibiotics are given; close contacts, especially babies and pregnant people, may need preventive antibiotics.
When a result needs quick action
Call 911A baby who stops breathing, turns blue, or struggles to breathe
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.