Pertussis is a highly infectious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It remains endemic in all countries, despite high vaccine coverage. Epidemic cycles are reported every 3 to 5 years. It affects people of all ages; however, young, unimmunised or partially immunised infants, are most vulnerable with the highest rates of complications and death.
An increase in cases of Pertussis has been noticed recently in some areas in the Free State and Northern Cape. Clinicians are advised to be on the alert for cases. Pertussis is a Category 1 notifiable medical condition in South Africa and all clinically suspected, as well as laboratory confirmed cases must be reported to provincial & district CDC coordinators and to the NICD. If the patient is in a healthcare facility, please notify the infection prevention and control practitioner. Clinicians should notify cases on the basis of clinical suspicion and not wait for laboratory confirmation.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)