Final answer:
To treat pertussis, antibiotics like erythromycin or tetracycline are used initially, with later treatments focused on reducing transmission. Vaccination with DTaP or Tdap is the most effective long-term prevention method.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of Pertussis and Post-exposure Prophylaxis
The treatment of pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, generally involves the administration of antibiotics at the early stages of the disease. Erythromycin or tetracycline are often prescribed initially. However, if the disease is diagnosed later, these antibiotics, along with others such as macrolides or beta-lactams, may be given to reduce the transmission rate. Post-exposure prophylaxis is also recommended for uninfected individuals who have been exposed, to minimize their risk of developing the disease. For longer-term management and prevention of pertussis, vaccination is the most effective method. The DPT vaccine, which included a killed whole-cell B. pertussis preparation, has been replaced by the DTaP and Tdap vaccines, where the 'aP' component is a pertussis toxoid that is safer and with fewer adverse effects. In addition, maintaining overall respiratory health can help reduce the severity of symptoms if one contracts the disease.