Pertussis Comeback

I wanted to remark on the Pertussis issue that is surfacing and baby.
I attended a Vaccination seminar specifically on Pertussis this week.
There is an increase in this bacterial infection in California and Washington – with King county posting an alert.
3y/o and below are at most risk from the sequela of the bacteria ie the toxins that are secreted effecting the respiratory
tract and causing airways issues.
Second children are most at risk due to carriers from older siblings and adults around them bringing the exposure home and
having close contact with baby.
Suggestions –
1.) Check for pertussis titers in adults and middle age kids.  Pertussis vaccination wanes in strength after 10y/o and there is now a new vaccination for teens.
2.) Consider inoculation of breast feeding mom or pre pregnancy mom so baby can get passive immunity through mom via placenta and  breast milk (for non vaccinated babies, esp)- this is a most recent idea and I like it.
The pertussis is a most challenging and tenacious bacteria.  It can really be a problem for this under 3 y/o age group mostly.

Just some thoughts – share with other moms.  If there are questions let me know.
Dr Kelly