Whooping cough on the rise in Colorado

Posted: Nov 18, 2010 5:14 PM by Greg Boyce

Due to a notable increase in the number of pertussis or whooping cough cases reported in Colorado since July, the state health department is recommending expanded use of vaccine for various age groups.

From July 1 through Nov. 13 of this year, 229 pertussis cases have been reported, compared to the 2007-2009 average of 77 cases per year during the same calendar period. Pertussis rates have increased the most in children 11-14 and 7-10 years of age.

Pertussis during early infancy frequently is severe and potentially fatal. While Colorado has not yet seen an increase in pertussis in young infants, state health officials are very concerned the overall increase in disease could lead to additional cases in infants.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is recommending the following:

DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis) vaccination of all infants at 2, 4 and 6 months
DTaP vaccination booster for all children at age 12-15 months
DTaP vaccination booster for all children at age 4-6 years
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis) vaccination booster for all adolescents at age 11-12 years
Tdap vaccination booster for adolescents 13-18 years (who have not received a Tdap booster)
Tdap vaccination booster for adults less than 65 years old