Abstract

PIP: Pertussis is a common, highly infectious, respiratory disease that predominantly affects children. As many as 60 million cases with more than a 1/2 million deaths occur annually. The highest incidence rates are observed in developing countries where immunization coverage is low. Accurate diagnosis under field conditions is hampered by current laboratory methods. The control of pertussis is accomplished largely through immunization and improvement of socioeconomic conditions. Although the adsorbed DPT vaccine is associated with some side effects, its benefits outweigh the risks when the vaccine sequelae are compared with the morbidity and mortality caused by the natural disease. Surveillance of pertussis and outbreak investigations provide valuable information about the disease and its effectiveness of ongoing immunization programs. (author's)