article_snippet: The condition usually begins with a persistent dry and irritating cough that progresses to intense bouts of coughing.
article_snippet: The early symptoms of whooping cough are often similar to those of a common cold and may include: .
article_snippet: The early symptoms of whooping cough can last for one to two weeks, before becoming more severe.
article_snippet: The second stage of whooping cough is often called the paroxysmal stage and is characterised by intense bouts of coughing. 
article_snippet: Each bout of coughing usually lasts between one and two minutes.
article_snippet: Infants younger than six months may not make the ‘whoop’ sound after coughing, but Infants younger than six months may start gagging or gasping, and may temporarily stop breathing.