The Centre for Infectious Diseases has noted that as of 13 Dec 2012, 4340 cases of pertussis have been reported in the state of Minnesota; this compares with 661 cases reported in 2011. As of 08 Dec 2012 at least 39,000 cases with 16 deaths were reported nationwide in United States.
All pregnant women are recommended to have a pertussis booster in pregnancy in the UK which should pass on immunity to the baby via the mother. However some countries have recommended boosters for close family members including spouses, partners and grandparents who will visit new born children. This has not been recommended in the UK and so cannot be given by the NHS, however The Travel Clinic offers the vaccination for £45-£50 .
The vaccine also contains Diptheria, Tetanus and Polio. It cannot be given within 4wks of a previous vaccine containing any of the diseases mentioned, ie Diptheria, Tetanus or Polio.
Parents should also ensure that children have received their routine immunisations against pertussis as per the UK national immunisation schedule. This is usually given at 2 months, 3 months and 4 months old with their primary vaccinations and then a booster with a child’s pre-school vaccination.
Please contact The Travel Clinic at Cambridge on 01223 367362 or at Ipswich on 01473 217592.
More information: The Travel Clinic
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