Children Admitted with Pertussis Over a One-Year Period

Abstract

Aims
This study examines cases of Bordetella pertussis admitted to a tertiary hospital in Dublin, Ireland over a one-year period. Described are the demographics, clinical features, severity, morbidity, clinical course and vaccination status of patients.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study included all children admitted with pertussis from January 2024 to December 2024 inclusive. Data were collected from patient records and analysed with descriptive statistics.

Results
Of the 26 children admitted, 20 (76.9%) were <6 months of age. Median length of stay was 7 days and 3 (11.5%) required readmission. Oxygen supplementation was required in 10 (38.4%) cases and intravenous hydration for >48 hours in 11 (42.3%). The pertussis severity score (PSS) was >5 (severe) in 18 (69.2%). Vaccine eligible children comprised 16 of 26 cases (61.5%). Vaccination status was documented in 24 children; 13 (54.1%) were unvaccinated against pertussis, with 10 (76.9%) ineligible due to age. Vaccination was completed in 4 (16.7%), and 7 (29.1%) were partially vaccinated. Maternal vaccination status was documented in 15 cases, 3 (20.0%) received antenatal vaccination.

Conclusion
Pertussis is associated with significant morbidity particularly in infants. Many children are admitted before full vaccination highlighting the importance of maternal antenatal pertussis vaccination.