Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Yesterday to Today

It’s America, 1920-1930, and there are an average of 160,000 infections and 5000 deaths from Pertussis (Whooping Cough). In 1921, Whooping Cough was the eighth leading cause of death in Florida. At America’s highest point, 250,000 infections and as many as 9000 deaths are reported. The introduction of the Pertussis vaccine in the 1940’s changed that. Today in America, we have decreased the infection and death rate by 99% (as of 1976).

Only an average of 5000-7000 infections are reported yearly. Many countries outside the United States have infection and death rates similar to those in America almost 85 years ago. Today worldwide, it is estimated that 20-40 million infections and 200,000 deaths will be recorded yearly. In many individual developing countries, the death toll can reach as high as 15 deaths per 100 infected people. This is mainly due to the lack of access to immunization programs.

So why are we concerned about America?

In America, Pertussis epidemics occur about every 3-5 years. Some of our children never start or complete the initial vaccination series. More importantly, pertussis is a preventable bacterial disease that can be deadly. In 2003, 13 children in the United States died from Pertussis and many more had prolonged illness with this infection. Every year CDC receives from15-21 reported deaths. Pertussis is on the rise in America, even in Orange County.

In 2002 we had no reported Pertussis cases in Orange County. Last year we had a total of 5 and so far this year, we have 5 cases. Most of these infected children are under one year of age.

A highly contagious disease, Pertussis can be passed person to person through contact with respiratory discharges, as in coughing. This “spasm-like” coughing can last for weeks and lead to pneumonia or convulsions. Infants under 1 year of age are at the greatest risk for severe illness with about two-thirds of infant cases requiring hospitalization.

Pertussis can be prevented by following the vaccine series of five (5) doses; one dose at age 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years. The maximum benefit from the vaccine requires at least 3 doses and given on time.

For more information call ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH DEPT Immunizations program at 407-836-2502.