ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of a 2-year-old female who is presented with coryza and cough. The history of prolonged cough with paroxysms and vomiting, and the confusion surrounding the patient's immunisation status, should raise suspicion that this child may have pertussis, also known as whooping cough. Pertussis is a notifiable disease; the local Public Health England (PHE) centre should be informed of any suspicion of infection. The diagnosis can be confirmed via nasopharyngeal aspirate/per nasal swabs, or detection of anti-pertussis toxin immunoglobulin G in blood or oral fluid samples. These should be taken in the Emergency Department before antibiotics are administered. If the patient is discharged, which is usually the case, prescribe an antibiotic if the onset of cough is within the previous 21 days. A macrolide antibiotic such as azithromycin or clarithromycin is recommended first-line. Advise rest, adequate fluid intake and analgesia for symptomatic relief.
