Pertussis, a respiratory illness commonly known as whooping cough, is a very contagious disease caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. These bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system. The bacteria release toxins (poisons), which damage the cilia and cause airways to swell. Pertussis spreads from person to person. People with pertussis usually spread the disease to another person by coughing or sneezing or when spending a lot of time near one another where you share breathing space. Many babies who get pertussis are infected by older siblings, parents, or caregivers who might not even know they have the disease.
How do I protect myself and family?
You can make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with recommended pertussis vaccines. There are two types of pertussis vaccines — DTaP for babies and children and Tdap for preteens, teens, and adults. Getting vaccinated with Tdap during every pregnancy is especially important for women. Also, caregivers of babies should keep them away from anyone with cough or cold symptoms.
Vaccination recommendations:
- For Babies and Children: In the United States, DTaP is the recommended pertussis vaccine for children. This is a safe and effective combination vaccine that protects children against three diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. For maximum protection against pertussis, children need five DTaP shots. Healthcare professionals give the first three shots at 2, 4, and 6 months old. They give the fourth shot to children who are 15 through 18 months old, and a fifth shot when a child enters school, at 4 through 6 years old. If a 7 through 10 year old is not up-to-date with DTaP vaccines, healthcare professionals should give a dose of Tdap before the 11- to 12-year-old check up.
- For Preteens and Teens: Vaccine protection for pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria can decrease with time. Preteens should get a booster vaccine, called Tdap, at 11 or 12 years old. Teens and young adults who didn’t get a booster of Tdap as a preteen should get one dose during their next visit to see their healthcare professional.
- For Pregnant Women: Expectant mothers should get one dose of Tdap between 27 through 36 weeks of each pregnancy, preferably during the earlier part of this time period. By getting Tdap during pregnancy, a pregnant woman passes her pertussis antibodies to the newborn. These antibodies provide protection against pertussis in early life, before the baby starts getting DTaP vaccines at 2 months old. Tdap will also help protect the mother, making her less likely to spread pertussis to her baby.
- For Adults: Adults 19 years or older who didn’t get Tdap as a preteen or teen should get a single dose of Tdap. Adults get Tdap in place of one of their regular tetanus boosters — the Td shot that CDC recommends for adults every 10 years. However, you can get the dose of Tdap no matter when you last received a Td shot. It’s a good idea for you to talk to a healthcare professional about what’s best for your specific situation. (from CDC)
Resources:
Information for Clinicians (Testing, Treatment, Complications and more)
