Pertussis is a highly infectious vaccine-preventable cough illness that is still a significant cause of morbidity and mortality around the world. It is caused by Bordetella pertussis, a Gram-negative aerobic coccobacillus that is spread by respiratory droplets. Although the incidence of the disease has been greatly reduced since the introduction of its vaccine, pathogen adaptation and enhanced surveillance are considered responsible for the increased reporting of pertussis cases. In Italy pertussis vaccination is mandatory: it is administered in children starting from the third month of life and, due to waning of immunity over time, more booster doses are needed to guarantee lasting immunity. The highest morbidity and mortality due to pertussis infection are observed in infants too young to benefit from immunization: severe infection requiring hospitalization, including an intensive care setting, is mostly observed in newborns under 3 months of age. Pertussis vaccination in pregnancy may protect infants through passive and active transfer of maternal antibodies until the primary immunization series. Studies show that vaccination of pregnant women with acellular pertussis vaccine is safe and effective for mothers and infants. Vaccination of pregnant women is therefore strongly recommended.