What is the best treatment for pertussis?

Abstract

A short-term course of erythromycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin is as effective as a long-term (2-week) erythromycin therapy in eradicating Bordetella pertussis from the nasopharynx (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A; based on one meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials [RCTs]). Evidence is insufficient to determine the benefit of antibiotic prophylaxis for pertussis contacts. However, due to high mortality and morbidity, prophylaxis is recommended for families who have an infant less than 6 months old (SOR: C; based on expert opinion).