[Proposals and recommendations due to the increased number of pertussis cases in Hungary].

The number of pertussis cases is increasing dramatically across Europe. More confirmed cases were registered in the first three months of this year than last year. Hungary has recently experienced a favourable epidemiological pertussis situation. The median number of reported cases has been 2 over the last 5 years. However, an increasing incidence has also been observed in our country: 153 pertussis cases were reported between January 1, 2024 and July 14, 2024. In order to control the possible spread to the community, a change in the preventive attitude of health care workers is necessary, as well as an increase in diagnostic activity. Identification and treatment of contact persons are essential as soon as possible. The population most at risk are newborns and unvaccinated or partially vaccinated infants under 6 months of age. At this age, complications of pertussis (e.g., respiratory or cardiac arrest due to apnea) can sometimes be fatal. The main goal is to protect this vulnerable population. Vaccinating pregnant women, providing a safe environment (cocooning strategy), and immunizing infants early are the best strategies to avoid life-threatening complications of the disease. Vaccination of pregnant women against pertussis has been carried out safely and with high efficiency in many countries for decades. It can be offered between weeks 16 and 36 of gestation, but the best protection is provided by vaccination early in the third trimester. In this publication, we make recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and post-exposure chemoprophylaxis and active immunization of pertussis, based on current international guidelines. Our recommendations for clinical practice are valid only in the current domestic epidemiological situation, pending the publication of the current official national recommendation. Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(34): 1307–1318.