Pertussis in the United States

03 Jun 2014

Health officials in the state of California have reported an increase in the number of pertussis (whooping cough) cases in 2014. Further cases are predicted as the outbreak has not yet peaked. Almost 2700 cases have been recorded since January which is greater than the number of cases recorded for the whole of 2013.

The Director of Health is recommending that pregnant women receive a pertussis vaccine booster during the third trimester to protect the infant during the first week of life and that infants are vaccinated as soon as possible.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of pertussis vaccine in accordance with the UK schedule. Pertussis vaccine boosters are not recommened for adults in the UK.