Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Pertussis in Children.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with pertussis in children.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data, risk factors, and laboratory indices of 100 children hospitalized with pertussis (pertussis group) and 100 children hospitalized with cough (control group) from January to December 2024.

RESULTS

The serum globulin and immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels in the pertussis group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The mean hospital stay length, C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cell (WBC) count were significantly higher in the pertussis group. The rates of delayed immunization and non-immunization with the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine were significantly higher in the pertussis group compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Delayed immunization and non-immunization with the DPT vaccine were identified as risk factors for pertussis infection. Timely vaccination with the pertussis vaccine and isolation from individuals suspected of carrying the infection are crucial for reducing pertussis incidence in infants and young children.