Whooping cough is an infection of the respiratory system caused by a toxin from

Question

Whooping cough is an infection of the respiratory system caused by a toxin from the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. The toxin inhibits the immune system by interfering with a G-protein coupled receptor pathway and causing adenylyl cyclase to be constitutively active (ie: constantly producing cAMP). This prevents immune cells from properly responding to the infection. There is a vaccine against pertussis (part of the TDAP series of vaccines), however vaccines are not available to all people. Children less than 1 year old, for example, do not have immune systems developed enough to receive the vaccine.

      The cause of the infection can be treated with antibiotics. However, the weakened immune system means the individual won't be able to fight the infection themselves. Design a drug that will improve immune functions in patients with pertussis. Make sure to give a detailed description of how the drug will treat the cause and only affect infected cells.

Explanation / Answer

Immunisation is the mainstay for B. pertussis infection.

The drug erythromycin is prefered here in patients, adult dose is 250mg for four times a day for round about seven days.

A formulation of diptheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine is given at two, four and six months of age with a booster of four years. Another booster is recommended at 12–17 years of age using the adolescent/adult formulation which has a lower concentration of pertussis antigens than childhood vaccinations.

It is important to note that adult and adolescent vaccinatio is an effective means of controlling the infection and will have positive health effects within the community

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