Illness in an infant can be harrowing, especially if it is a serious illness such as pertussis. Although the trademark of the disease is the "whoop" sound after a coughing fit, not everyone with the disease displays this symptom, so see a medical professional if you think your infant may have pertussis. Vitamin C may be helpful in recovery from the disease, but talk with your pediatrician before giving the vitamin to your child.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a vitamin that not only helps boost the immune system but also provides numerous other health benefits. It is water-soluble, and since the body does not produce the vitamin naturally, you need to consistently consume this vitamin to have it in the body. Vitamin C aids in producing collagen, which is used in making blood vessels, tendons and ligaments and bone, says the Linus Pauling Institute. It contains antioxidant properties, which means it helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Before using vitamin C, consult your doctor to obtain appropriate dosing guidelines.
Pertussis
Pertussis, another name for whooping cough, is a bacterial disease that is contagious. In infants especially, this disease can be serious, with symptoms starting off similar to the common cold and progressing to violent coughing episodes. In young infants, apnea, or a pause in breathing, can occur, explains the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Although this is can be a dangerous disease, there is a vaccine for pertussis that can help reduce the risk of your child contracting it. Talk with your child's pediatrician about the pertussis vaccine series and whether it is appropriate at this time for your child.
Vitamin C for Pertussis
Immediate treatment by a doctor of pertussis is vital in preventing complications, especially in infants less than 6 months of age. There are treatments for pertussis, and vitamin C should not be used in place of these treatments. Good nutrition is important during and after the illness, and 200 to 500 mg of vitamin C twice a day is recommended, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Before giving vitamin C to an infant, talk with your pediatrician about whether this is safe.
Considerations
Vitamin C is not a treatment or cure for pertussis and should only be given in conjunction with appropriate medical treatment. Ask your doctor about a safe amount of vitamin C to administer to your infant. Not everyone chooses to get their child vaccinated, but if you are considering not vaccinating your child, talk with a health-care professional about the possible risks of not vaccinating.
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