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Pertussis: a persistent cause of morbidity and mortality in young infants

Joseph B Cantey1, Pablo J Sánchez1, Judy Tran2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX.

The Journal of Pediatrics
|February 26, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Pertussis (whooping cough) remains a threat, especially to infants. Despite vaccination strategies for pregnant women and infants, challenges persist in preventing pertussis outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Pertussis outbreaks pose significant risks, particularly to young children.
  • A 2012 outbreak in Dallas County tragically resulted in four infant deaths.
  • Current pertussis prevention strategies face ongoing challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the persistent challenges in pertussis prevention.
  • To underscore the importance of timely infant and maternal immunization.
  • To review existing recommendations for pertussis control.

Main Methods:

  • Review of pertussis outbreak data.
  • Analysis of current immunization guidelines.
  • Assessment of challenges in vaccine uptake and administration.

Main Results:

  • Unvaccinated children were disproportionately affected in the Dallas County outbreak.
  • Infants under 60 days of age, who are not yet fully immunized, are highly vulnerable.
  • Despite recommendations, gaps in achieving optimal pertussis protection remain.

Conclusions:

  • Pertussis prevention requires sustained efforts and addressing implementation gaps.
  • Maternal immunization and early infant vaccination are critical.
  • Continued vigilance and improved strategies are needed to protect infants from pertussis.

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