For pertussis in an infant with incomplete vaccination, which antibiotic is recommended?

Study for the Foundation Year Pharmacy – Clinical Practice Test. Prepare with detailed questions, step-by-step explanations, and test format insights. Enhance your readiness and confidence!

Multiple Choice

For pertussis in an infant with incomplete vaccination, which antibiotic is recommended?

Explanation:
Pertussis in an infant is best treated with a macrolide antibiotic to kill Bordetella pertussis and shorten the contagious period. Azithromycin is preferred in infants because it effectively clears the nasopharyngeal carriage, has a favorable safety profile, and requires a short course, reducing feeding troubles and the risk of pyloric stenosis seen with erythromycin. In an incompletely vaccinated infant, rapid therapy helps limit spread to household contacts and may lessen disease severity. Other antibiotics listed do not have reliable activity against pertussis or are not first-line choices for this infection.

Pertussis in an infant is best treated with a macrolide antibiotic to kill Bordetella pertussis and shorten the contagious period. Azithromycin is preferred in infants because it effectively clears the nasopharyngeal carriage, has a favorable safety profile, and requires a short course, reducing feeding troubles and the risk of pyloric stenosis seen with erythromycin. In an incompletely vaccinated infant, rapid therapy helps limit spread to household contacts and may lessen disease severity. Other antibiotics listed do not have reliable activity against pertussis or are not first-line choices for this infection.

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