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Pertussis is one of the most common vaccine-preventable illnesses. You may have read about periodic outbreaks nationwide, as well as in your own Wisconsin community. Since the best approach is to prevent the illness, the CDC (the US Center for Disease Control) has come out with new vaccine recommendations.

This vaccine not only protects you from pertussis, but also prevents spread of this disease to vulnerable infants. It is now recommended that the Tdap vaccine (protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) replaces the regular tetanus booster (Td) for some populations. Ideally, women should have a booster of Tdap prior to pregnancy or even in the later half of pregnancy if needed, or immediately after birth, if they have not received this before and need a booster. Others who come in contact with infants can get a Tdap booster if it has been a couple years since their last Td (especially new parents). It can also be given for a wound if the last Td booster was five or more years prior. If you've never had Tdap, it should be given once instead of the routine Td to anyone up to 65 years of age. It can also be given to people over 65, especially if they have contact with infants. If these recommendations sound confusing, they are. Check with your provider if you have questions on whether you should have this vaccine. Please note that these recommendations are in addition to the usual childhood vaccine schedule.

To hear a clip of what whooping cough can sound like, click this link. Keep in mind, not everyone will have a cough that sounds like this though.

p.s. With all the buzz about preventing pertussis with the Tdap vaccine, don't forget to get your flu shot! It's not too late to get it, although the availability may be limited.

Have a happy and healthy New Year!


Judy Anderson, APNP
Internal Medicine