Infection with whooping cough in infants increases their risk of developing autism spectrum disorder, according to a new study led by scientists at Trinity College Dublin (TCD).
Although the researchers identify whooping cough – also known as pertussis – as a risk factor for autism in a study published by iScience, they say it’s difficult to pinpoint the precise risk involved.
“There have been a few reports showing associations between viral or bacterial infections in pregnancy and autism in offspring,” Prof Mills said.
“We showed that early in life, when the immune system is still immature infection with whooping cough is not confined to the respiratory tract, and bacteria spread to the brain,” he said.
“It also holds hope of reducing the indigence of neurodevelopment and learning defect seen in children that have recovered from whooping cough.”

Whooping cough increases autism risk in infants, Trinity research finds