prophylaxis

The CDC supports providing such post-exposure prophylaxis to all asymptomatic household contacts within 21 days of when a whooping cough patient starts coughing.

Officials call the treatment doxy PEP, short for doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis.

The patient was treated with an antiviral right away, and close contacts were given post-exposure prophylaxis.

"This could be a potential broad spectrum antiviral treatment and prophylaxis."

For now, people taking pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis against HIV will be deferred at least three months, which has drawn concerns from advocates who note the prevention drugs are safe and effective.