The resurgence of pertussis

Low vaccination coverage has been linked to recent outbreaks.5 The Canadian National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends five childhood doses and a booster dose at 14- 16 years.2 It recommends that all adults 18 years or older should receive a single dose of tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccine. Parents, grandparents and childcare providers who have not received an adult dose should be prioritized for vaccination.2 Because variations exist, physicians should be familiar with their own provincial funding mechanisms for immunizations.6 Pertussis (whooping cough) is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. In children, pertussis classically presents with paroxysms of coughing followed by a post-tussive inspiratory whooping sound.1 In older individuals, its sole manifestation may be protracted cough; therefore, pertussis should be on the differential diagnosis for any adolescent or adult with protracted cough, regardless of their immunization status.2 Infants are at greatest risk of complications, including otitis media, pneumonia, encephalopathy, seizures and death.1 2. Pertussis vaccine. In: National Advisory Committee on Immunization. Canadian immunization guide: part 4 - active vaccines. Ottawa: Public Health Agency of Canada; 2014. Available: www.phac -aspc.gc.ca/publicat/cig-gci/p04-pert-coqu-eng.php (modified 2014 May 14; accessed 2014 Aug. 22).