Euro Surveill. 2024 Jun;29(23). doi: 10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2024.29.23.2400301.
ABSTRACT
Since January 2024, Italy experiences a pertussis outbreak, primarily affecting neonates and unvaccinated infants at high risk of severe complications and mortality; 11 major paediatric centres noted 108 hospitalisations and three deaths by 10 May. The outbreak reflects increased circulation of Bordetella pertussis and non-adherence to immunisation recommendations during pregnancy. Public health interventions, including maternal immunisation, vaccination of infants as early as possible and post-exposure prophylaxis, are critical for reducing the burden of pertussis and preventing further mortality.
PMID:38847118 | DOI:10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2024.29.23.2400301
