[Neonatal pertussis in Africa: a case report]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, is a vaccine-preventable illness.
• Infants under 3 months are highly vulnerable due to lack of immunity and parental transmission.
• Neonatal pertussis is rare, with atypical presentations being more common.

Observation:

• A case of severe pertussis in a newborn, likely transmitted from the mother, is presented.
• Clinical suspicion of pertussis was based on persistent coughing fits.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through serological testing.

Findings:

• Successful treatment of malignant whooping cough in a newborn was achieved.
• In resource-limited settings like parts of Africa, clinical assessment and lymphocyte counts can aid diagnosis when PCR is unavailable.
• Challenges exist in vaccinating adolescents and adults in low-income countries.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering pertussis in newborns with respiratory symptoms.
• Suggests alternative diagnostic methods for pertussis in areas with limited laboratory access.
• Emphasizes the need for improved vaccination strategies and new vaccine development for better pertussis control globally.