A pediatric health problem increasing with migration: pertussis reloading
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Bordetella pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection affecting infants, particularly those in vulnerable populations. This study investigates the increase in pertussis cases following refugee influxes and natural disasters. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed 28 infants hospitalized in our hospital's pediatric ward due to whooping cough between December 27, 2023, and April 30, 2024. Demographics, vaccination status, clinical findings, treatments, and outcomes were reviewed. RESULTS: Of the 28 infants, 60.7% were male and 39.3% were of Syrian origin; 42.9% were unvaccinated. The mean age was 3.46 ± 3.48 months, and median hospitalization was 11 days. All presented with respiratory distress. Paroxysmal cough (96.4%), feeding difficulty (53.6%), and fever (32.1%) were common. Convulsions occurred in 10.7%, and apnea in 3.6%. B. pertussis was confirmed by PCR in all cases. Chest radiographs showed pneumonic infiltrates in 85.7%. Macrolide antibiotics were given to all. Leukocytosis (15,000-30,000/µL) was observed in 53.6%, extreme leukocytosis in 7.1%, and lymphocytosis in 64.3%. Respiratory support was needed in 78.6%. Four required ICU care; two intubated patients died of multiple organ failure. CONCLUSION: Pertussis remains a serious health threat, especially among unvaccinated and displaced infants. Strengthening immunization programs and ensuring early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce disease burden.
Authors: Sefika Aldas, Murat Ersoy, Berfin Ozgokce Ozmen, Asuman Demirhan, Ali Tunc, Sanliay Sahin
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,900
OpenAlex ID: W4413883406