PERTUSSIS IN PREGNANT-WOMEN AND NEONATES

Pertussis affects not only children but also adults. The disease often takes an atypical course in adults and it is frequently misdiagnosed. Pregnant women with pertussis do not suffer from serious obstetrical complications. If, however, they are contagious at the lime of deliver y, they may infect the neonate immediately post partum. Neonates are s usceptible to pertussis and may become seriously ill with potentially fatal consequences. Neonatal pertussis is frequently misdiagnosed, too . The disease can be prevented by prophylactical administration of ery thromycin to the neonate.