Pertussis Vaccine Immunization Schedule
The Pertussis vaccine is given as part of the pentavalent vaccine. The pentavalent vaccine is made of 5 vaccines and given as one injection. The injection is given into the muscle on the anterior side of the left mid-thigh. The vaccine is given at 6 weeks, 10 weeks and 14 weeks.
The side effects of the pentavalent vaccine include a high temperature, poor feeding and irritability. The injection site may be swollen and painful for a few days. Babies can be given pain relief medication as prescribed by the nurse.
Pertussis (whooping Cough)
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, and it spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacterium can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria and then touching the nose or mouth. Pertussis is most common in children under the age of 5, but it can affect people of all ages.
Symptoms of Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
It starts a common cold that lasts about 2 weeks. The symptoms of pertussis can vary depending on the age of the person affected. In infants, symptoms can include pauses in breathing, difficulty breathing, and a blue tint to the skin. In older children and adults, symptoms can include a persistent cough that lasts for several weeks (3 months), vomiting after coughing, and exhaustion after coughing fits. The characteristic "whooping" sound that occurs after coughing fits is not always present, especially in adults. The cough is continuous and leads to gasping for air or vomiting everything eaten. Children are unable to sleep and vomit all day and night after each paroxysm of cough. Babies turn blue after each episode when they can't breathe. Children look very tired after each coughing episode but are otherwise well at other times.
Have you seen any child with this type of cough? cough that goes on and on?
Prevention of Whooping Cough
The best way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination. The pertussis vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule, and it is also recommended for adults who have not been vaccinated or who need a booster. It is important to get vaccinated to protect yourself and those around you, especially infants who are at the highest risk for severe complications from pertussis. Some countries recommend boosters at 2 years and 5 years.
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