A Pertussis Epidemic was officially declared in California on June 18, 2010. To date there have been over 3,000 cases reported and now eight infant deaths. Pertussis or Whooping Cough is an infectious disease of the lungs caused by the bacterium Bordatella pertussis.
Pertussis vaccination begins at 2 months of age, but young infants are not adequately protected until the initial series of three shots is completed at 6 months of age. Adults are the largest reservoir for spread of Pertussis to others. If infected, adults may have mild cold symptoms and unknowingly infect infants and children who have not been vaccinated and can cause serious disease and even death.
In 2005 the FDA approved the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, acellular Pertussis) vaccine, which is a safe, effective vaccine designed to protect adolescents and adults against Pertussis. Immunity from childhood vaccination wears off by late adolescence and having the disease does not provide life long protection. If you have questions about whether you should have the Tdap vaccine, you should consult your personal physician.
Great article. You make a good case for getting vaccinations.