In the management of Pertussis, what is the mainstay of treatment for the patient?

• A. Macrolide antibiotics to the infected patient
• B. Supportive care such as oxygen, nebulizers, and ventilation PRN
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Vaccination only

Answer: (B)

The main focus in managing pertussis is providing supportive care to keep the patient airway-secure, well-oxygenated, and hydrated while the illness runs its course. Supportive measures—oxygen as needed, suctioning to clear thick secretions, ensuring adequate fluids and nutrition, and providing ventilatory support if respiratory failure develops—address the symptoms and complications of the paroxysmal coughing phase. Antibiotics, particularly macrolides, are used to eradicate Bordetella pertussis and to reduce contagiousness, and they may shorten the illness if started early, but they do not reliably relieve established coughing spells. Vaccination remains the key preventive measure.