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Pertussis seroepidemiology in Taipei
Summary
Pertussis (whooping cough) remains a risk for all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, despite vaccination. Booster shots may be needed to prevent pertussis transmission.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by *Bordetella pertussis*.
- While vaccination has reduced incidence, pertussis outbreaks continue to occur globally.
- Understanding seroprevalence is crucial for assessing population immunity and vaccine effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the seroprevalence of pertussis antibodies in apparently healthy residents of Taipei.
- To analyze age-specific antibody titers against pertussis toxin (PT) and filamentous hemagglutinin (FHA).
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from individuals across various age groups, from infants to adults, including pregnant women.
- Antibody titers against PT and FHA were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
- Subjects were stratified into 12 age groups for detailed analysis.
Main Results:
- Elevated anti-PT and anti-FHA titers were observed in infants (4-6 months) and toddlers (19-20 months), coinciding with routine pertussis vaccinations.
- A secondary rise in anti-PT titers in the 3-4 year age group suggested natural pertussis infection.
- While anti-PT titers decreased with age, anti-FHA titers remained elevated in individuals over 15 years old, indicating sustained exposure or immunity.
Conclusions:
- Seroprevalence patterns suggest that young children, adolescents, and adults are susceptible to pertussis.
- The current immunization schedule may require booster vaccinations, potentially extending into adolescence, to effectively control pertussis transmission.