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Pertussis-like syndrome and whooping cough are lower respiratory tract diseases that primarily affect the pediatric population, with a high risk of complications. Globally, around 50 million cases and 300,000 deaths are reported annually, reflecting their significant public health impact. In the Americas, between 15,000 and 30,000 cases are recorded each year, following a cyclical pattern every three to five years. The clinical presentation includes paroxysmal coughing episodes followed by an inspiratory whoop, more frequent at night, with cyanosis that may progress to respiratory failure, being more common in infants under two months and unimmunized children. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and molecular testing of nasopharyngeal samples. First-line treatment includes macrolide antibiotics, and in cases of allergy, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is used. Prevention relies on vaccinating children and caregivers of infants under two months.
