Abstract
The UK is currently experiencing an epidemic of pertussis (whooping cough), in spite of the fact that uptake of immunisation against this disease has remained consistently high for some time. The number of cases is far higher in adults and adolescents, but there has also been a huge increase in the burden of disease among infants under 3 months, in whom the outcome is potentially far more serious. Last year, 14 infants died from the disease, prompting the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to recommend vaccination for all women in the third trimester of pregnancy. This article looks at the background to the current epidemic, outlining the history of the disease; the underpinning immunological principles that have influenced attempts to control its spread to date; the current immunisation schedule; and other possible measures being considered.
Collapse