Whooping Cough Vaccines: What You Need to Know
What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis.
It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can make it difficult to breathe.
Whooping cough can be serious, especially for infants and young children.
Whooping Cough Vaccines
Two types of vaccines are used in the United States to protect against whooping cough:
DTaP Vaccine
The DTaP vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
It is given as a series of shots to infants and children.
Tdap Vaccine
The Tdap vaccine is a booster shot that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
It is recommended for adolescents and adults.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
The CDC recommends that all infants, children, and adults get vaccinated against whooping cough.
Infants should get the DTaP vaccine as part of their routine childhood immunization schedule.
Children who have completed the DTaP vaccine series should get a Tdap booster shot at age 11 or 12.
Adults should get a Tdap booster shot every 10 years.
Benefits of Vaccination
Whooping cough vaccines are very effective at preventing the disease.
They have helped to reduce the number of cases of whooping cough in the United States by more than 90%.
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from whooping cough.
Risks of Vaccination
Whooping cough vaccines are generally safe.
The most common side effects are mild, such as soreness at the injection site.
Serious side effects are rare.
Conclusion
Whooping cough is a serious disease that can be prevented by vaccination.
The CDC recommends that all infants, children, and adults get vaccinated against whooping cough.
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