>
>Finally a topic where I have a lot of expertise, I am the immunization
>coordinator at the county agency where I work.
>We are seeing more pertussis in infants here as well.  Pertussis is endemic
>in adult populations, the vaccination for it is not lifetime. However,
>whooping cough is seldom fatal in adults and so we have traditionally just
>vaccinated the population at risk, young children.
>There is some discussion that perhaps adults should continue to get Pertusss
>vaccine with their adult tetanus/diptheria boosters to help reduce the
>incidence of Pertussis, especially now that we are giving the Acellular
>Pertusis for all children.
>The incidence is most likely underreported since it needs tested specifically
>for and is not usually even mentioned to adults with persistent coughs.
>
>Pat Thomas
>Winona County
>