Pertussis Treatment in Children Aged 6 Months to 17 Years

Managing pertussis (whooping cough) in this age group requires careful attention to the child's weight and age when selecting and dosing antibiotic therapy. This first-line protocol covers the full structured approach for children older than 6 months up to 17 years.

Clinical scenario: A child aged greater than 6 months up to 17 years presenting with pertussis, where antibiotic treatment is indicated. Age- and weight-based dosing considerations apply across this range.

Treatment Approach

First-line therapy centres on macrolide antibiotic treatment, with a preferred agent and an alternative regimen for cases where macrolides are contraindicated or not tolerated. Selection and dosing differ by age band and weight. The complete agent choices, weight-banded doses, and durations are in the full protocol.

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References

Child (>6 months – 17 years)

A 3-day course of azithromycin is the preferred choice in all age groups.

Consider if macrolides contra-indicated or not tolerated.

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