Analysis of Clinical Characteristics of Pertussis in Children Aged 0–6 Years in Tertiary and Pediatric Hospitals of Jiangsu Province from January to May 2024

Objective: To analyze the clinical manifestations and hospitalization-related factors among children with pertussis, and to provide scientific support for pertussis prevention, control, clinical diagnosis, and treatment. Methods: From January through May 2024, children aged 0–6 years with a confirmed diagnosis of pertussis at tertiary hospitals and children’s hospitals in Jiangsu Province were enrolled in this investigation. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed to explore the clinical characteristics of the children, with stratification by age, immunization status, time from onset to diagnosis, and visit type. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with hospitalization. Results: In total, 3361 children were recruited, with the 6-year age group accounting for the highest proportion (35.4%). Severe symptoms such as apnea and cyanosis were more common in infants aged 0–5 months. Children who received four doses of the pertussis vaccine had significantly lower rates of paroxysmal cough, vomiting, cyanosis and apnea than unvaccinated children (p < 0.001). Delayed diagnosis (≥15 days after onset) was found in 26.89% of children, who had a higher prevalence of vomiting and cyanosis. The prevalence of all clinical symptoms was higher in hospitalized children than in outpatients. Age 0–2 months, delayed diagnosis, cyanosis, paroxysmal cough, and fever were positively associated with hospitalization, whereas receipt of ≥1 dose was negatively associated with hospitalization. Conclusions: Infants ≤2 months are at high risk for severe pertussis and hospitalization. Early diagnosis, timely vaccination, and close monitoring of children presenting with cyanosis, paroxysmal cough, and fever are critical to reducing pertussis-related hospitalization risk, especially in infants.