Pertussis (Keuchhusten)

Pertussis is caused by the gram-negative bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The disease manifestations range from unspecific coughing to life-threatening courses with hyperleukocytosis and respiratory failure, especially in young infants. The diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and microbiological detection methods. The treatment consists of macrolide antibiotics and caffeine can be used against apnea. The incidence is 10–40 cases/100,000 inhabitants per year and highest in infants (approximately 50), followed by adolescents (30–35). In the first 5 months of life more than 50% of all children with pertussis are hospitalized. Vaccination prevention consists of basic immunization and regular booster doses with acellular component vaccines. Vaccination of pregnant women is the most promising strategy to prevent severe pertussis in young infants. Infants of vaccinated mothers should still be immunized in a timely manner for their own protection from the age of 2 months onwards.