This protocol addresses pertussis (whooping cough) in neonates aged under one month — the highest-risk age group, in whom antibiotic selection requires careful, age-guided decision-making.
The first month of life presents specific constraints on antibiotic choice. Agents commonly used in older infants and children carry distinct safety concerns in neonates, and certain options are contraindicated at this age. Antibiotic selection must account for these age-specific limitations.
Age-specific caution requiredManagement centres on a macrolide antibiotic, with a preferred agent in this setting that must nonetheless be used with particular caution in the neonatal period. At least one alternative class is not appropriate in neonates this young. The full agent selection guidance, safety caveats, and complete regimen are in the protocol below.