Prognosis

Infants <1 year of age

Infants aged <1 year account for most deaths from pertussis.[8][10]​ One half to two-thirds of all infants aged <1 year who have pertussis require hospitalisation, most commonly those aged <6 months. Case fatality rates are also highest in young infants: 1% in those aged <2 months and <0.5% in older children.[2]

Aged >1 year

In older children and adults, the prognosis is generally very good, although cough may persist for months.[2][20]​ The rate of developing pneumonia is up to 8% and rib fracture is up to 4%.[2] Morbidity and mortality is increased in older adults and in people with pre-existing pulmonary disease.

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