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Epidemiological determinants of pertussis
Developments in Biological Standardization
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Whole-cell pertussis vaccines provide strong protection and herd immunity. However, pertussis incidence may rise in adults, necessitating active surveillance and monitoring of newer vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Pertussis (whooping cough) epidemiology is influenced by vaccine quality and coverage.
- Whole-cell pertussis vaccines demonstrate efficacy in preventing disease and transmission, achieving herd immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological impact of pertussis immunisation programmes.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of whole-cell pertussis vaccines.
- To identify future surveillance needs for pertussis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of epidemiological data from England and Wales.
- Modeling of pertussis transmission dynamics.
- Review of surveillance systems for pertussis.
Main Results:
- Whole-cell pertussis vaccines offer robust protection against clinical disease and infection transmission.
- High vaccine coverage can establish herd immunity.
- Pertussis incidence may increase in adults even with sustained high coverage and no waning immunity.
Conclusions:
- Active surveillance for adult pertussis is crucial due to underreporting by passive systems.
- Post-licensing surveillance of acellular pertussis vaccines is essential for long-term effectiveness assessment.
- Determining optimal boosting strategies for pertussis vaccines requires ongoing evaluation.