What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough is an infectious airborne disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis that can result in spastic coughing. The disease can be fatal to infants and young children.
Why get vaccinated against whooping cough?
Vaccination helps prevent the spread of whooping cough, also called pertussis. A pertussis outbreak was announced in 2010, when California recorded the highest number of cases since 1947.
Due to this outbreak, a new state law effective for 2011-12 requires that public and private school students in seventh through 12th grade present Tdap booster shot documentation in order to attend classes.
Who needs to be vaccinated?
The Communicable Disease Control and Prevention unit at the San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) suggests that everyone be vaccinated against whooping cough. Infants and children younger than age 7 receive the Dtap vaccination. Those who are older may need a Tdap booster shot, especially the following:
Anyone regularly in contact with infants, including caregivers, parents and healthcare workers
People age 65 or older
Women of childbearing age, preferably before pregnancy
Where do I get a vaccination?
Your best choice is to visit your primary care doctor. If you or your child needs a Tdap shot, call your physician to schedule an appointment today.
The SFDPH Adult Immunization and Travel Clinic also offers Tdap shots to drop-in visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. This year, the clinic is also giving Tdap shots to students entering seventh through 12th grade at a reduced fee of $35 through September 16, 2011. The clinic is located at 101 Grove Street in San Francisco, room 102. Call 415.554.2625 for more information.
Some retail pharmacies and schools are also offering Tdap shots for a fee.
Vaccination Reimbursement