What can we do to prevent infants from getting pertussis?
In the U.S., we have the vaccine called DTaP (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis vaccine). DTaP is safe and effective, and prevents severe pertussis and death among infants and young children. The best way to protect infants from pertussis is to give DTaP vaccine starting on time at 2 months of age. Parents should vaccinate their infant on-time (at 2, 4, and 6 months of age) and complete all the recommended doses of DTaP vaccine to best protect their infant. At least three DTaP doses are needed to have the maximum benefit from the vaccination. However, even one or two doses of DTaP will provide some protection against pertussis. Parents are urged to make sure their infant receives these doses on time. Parents can also help protect their very young infants by minimizing exposure (close contact) with persons who have cold symptoms or cough illness. Coughing people of any age, including parents, siblings and grandparents can have pertussis. When a person has cold sympt
