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Serotype specificity of vaccine-induced immunity to pertussis

N W Preston1, E J Carter

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical School, Manchester.

Communicable Disease Report. CDR Review
|December 4, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Pertussis epidemics in Britain were linked to reduced vaccine uptake. Current vaccines show varied efficacy against different pertussis serotypes, highlighting the need for broader protection.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Epidemiology
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Pertussis (whooping cough) epidemics occurred in Britain in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
  • These outbreaks followed a significant decline in pertussis vaccine uptake.
  • Pertussis is caused by the bacterium *Bordetella pertussis*, which has multiple serotypes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the serotype distribution of *Bordetella pertussis* isolates during pertussis epidemics.
  • To compare the effectiveness of whole-cell pertussis vaccines against different serotypes.
  • To inform the development of future acellular pertussis vaccines.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of *Bordetella pertussis* isolates from pertussis cases in Britain during epidemic periods.
  • Comparison of serotype prevalence in unvaccinated versus vaccinated children.
  • Evaluation of whole-cell vaccine efficacy based on existing data regarding serotype-specific protection.

Main Results:

  • Serotype 1,3 predominated during both major pertussis epidemics.
  • Serotypes 1,2 and 1,2,3 were significantly more prevalent in unvaccinated children (32%) compared to vaccinated children (10%).
  • Whole-cell vaccines demonstrated higher efficacy against serotypes 1,2 and 1,2,3 than against serotype 1,3.

Conclusions:

  • Pertussis vaccine effectiveness varies by serotype, with whole-cell vaccines being less protective against serotype 1,3.
  • Future acellular pertussis vaccines should include antigens for all prevalent serotypes.
  • Clinical trials must demonstrate efficacy against all three major pertussis serotypes to ensure comprehensive protection.

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