Pertussis

How is pertussis spread?¹

  Pertussis is spread from the respiratory droplets of an infected individual. Spread through fomites may occur, however this is rare.

Pertussis' symptoms are severe and may last up to 12 weeks

Catarrhal Stage

During the first stage of pertussis, symptoms are similar to a common cold.

Paroxysmal Stage

The paroxysmal stage occurs about 1-2 weeks after symptoms begin.

Convalescent Stage

2-8 weeks after the start of infection or 1-6 weeks after paroxysmal stage, the convalescent stage begins. Symptoms, including paroxysm, subside and resolve roughly 1-2 weeks.

Complications^4,5

Pertussis can lead to severe complications, especially in infants and children when compared to teens and adults.

Common complications in infant and children:

Common complications in teens and adults

Pertussis Vaccines

Several vaccines available designed to protect individuals from Pertussis. DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and acellular Pertussis) and TDaP all protect you from pertussis as well as other infectious diseases such as diphtheria.

Vaccine Safety⁶

Reviews of VAERS reports associated with DTaP and TDaP vaccines found the vaccines to be safe. Studies looked into some specific neurological problems or seizures and found no association between these complications and the vaccines.

If you are unsure about vaccine safety, you should always speak with your doctor about any potential risks.

Vaccine Effectiveness

Thanks to improved hygiene and the introduction of pertussis vaccinations, yearly cases of pertussis have dropped significantly since the 1950s. Vaccines are most effective as long as individuals receive the recommended number of doses as well as regular boosters.

Communities with high rates of vaccination further benefit from herd immunity, protecting those individuals who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Vaccine Schedules⁷

DTaP Vaccine Schedule

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TDaP Vaccine Schedule

How do I know if I am protected against pertussis?

Your vaccination records are the best way of knowing if you have been vaccinated. If these records cannot be found, your doctor may perform a blood test. Speak with your doctor if you are unsure about your immune status.

Types of pertussis vaccines⁸

Many different manufacturers produce many different vaccines to protect from not only tetanus, but also several other infectious diseases as well.

Legend

DTaP Vaccines

The following vaccines protect individuals from diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Some vaccines also include vaccinations for polio, Heptatitis B, and/or Hib.

Tdap

Tdap vaccines protect individuals from diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

Side Effects^9,10

In some cases, vaccines may cause side effects. Always speak with your doctor about concerns you may have.

Severe Allergic Reactions

In very rare cases, severe allergic reactions have been observed. Let your doctor know if you have ever experienced any allergic reactions to vaccines.

The Bottom Line

Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that can be particularly dangerous for children. Vaccines can prevent or lessen the symptoms of pertussis.