Safety assessments of recombinant DTaP vaccines developed in South Korea.

Purpose: Pertussis bacteria have many pathogenic and virulent antigens and severe adverse reactions have occurred when using inactivated whole-cell pertussis vaccines. Therefore, inactivated acellular pertussis (aP) vaccines and genetically detoxified recombinant pertussis (rP) vaccines are being developed. The aim of this study was to assess the safety profile of a novel rP vaccine under development in comparison to commercial diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccines. Materials and Methods: The two positive control DTaP vaccines (two- and tri-components aP vaccines) and two experimental recombinant DTaP (rDTaP) vaccine (two- and tri-components aP vaccines adsorbed to either aluminum hydroxide or purified oat beta-glucan) were used. Temperature histamine sensitization test (HIST), indirect Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell cluster assay, mouse-weight-gain (MWG) test, leukocytosis promoting (LP) test, and intramuscular inflammatory cytokine assay of the injection site performed for safety assessments. Results: HIST results showed absence of residual pertussis toxin (PTx) in both control and experimental DTaP vaccine groups, whereas in groups immunized with tri-components vaccines, the experimental tri-components rDTaP absorbed to alum showed an ultra-small amount of 0.0066 IU/mL. CHO cell clustering was observed from 4 IU/mL in all groups. LP tests showed that neutrophils and lymphocytes were in the normal range in all groups immunized with the two components vaccine. However, in the tri-components control DTaP vaccine group, as well as two- and tri-components rDTaP with beta-glucan group, a higher monocyte count was observed 3 days after vaccination, although less than 2 times the normal range. In the MWG test, both groups showed changes less than 20% in body temperature and body weight before the after the final immunizations. Inflammatory cytokines within the muscle at the injection site on day 3 after intramuscular injection revealed no significant response in all groups. Conclusion: There were no findings associated with residual PTx, and no significant differences in both local and systemic adverse reactions in the novel rDTaP vaccine compared to existing available DTaP vaccines. The results suggest that the novel rDTaP vaccine is safe.

A study of acceptance and hesitation factors towards tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) and influenza vaccines during pregnancy.

Introduction: Vaccination of pregnant women with tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) and influenza vaccines is desirable to reduce neonatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. However, vaccine coverage rates and acceptance are frequently below recommended rates. Objectives: To ascertain Tdap and influenza vaccine coverage rates in our population and to study the reasons behind sub-optimal rates. Method: A survey was submitted to pregnant or in their puerperium women at the University Hospital of São Paulo University. Data were obtained during two consecutive influenza seasons (2017-2018), and vaccination was verified through vaccination chart checking. Respondents were classified according to their status as "Received Tdap" and "Didn't receive Tdap", and as "Know" or "Doesn't know" regarding their awareness of Tdap safety during pregnancy and protective effect on the newborn. Vaccine uptake and personal awareness of vaccination status were compared among these groups for Tdap and influenza vaccines. Results: In a studied sample of 207 patients (representative of the whole), coverage rates for Tdap and influenza vaccines were respectively 85.5% and 95.2%. Additionally, 84.5% received both vaccines. There was no vaccine refusal for Tdap and only 0.5% for influenza. For either Tdap or influenza vaccines, the main reason for not vaccinating was a lack of knowledge/information. Factors associated with not vaccinating Tdap during pregnancy were lower number of prenatal visits, being unemployed or freelance worker, not being aware of vaccine safety or its benefits for the baby, not being oriented by the doctor to be vaccinated, not being aware of personal vaccination status, and not having been vaccinated for influenza. Conclusion: While influenza vaccination coverage during pregnancy was ideal, Tdap rates were below recommended values. Significant factors associated with better coverage for Tdap during pregnancy included being employed and not being self-employed, (not yet reported in the Americas) and being aware of personal vaccination status.

Improved serologic responses to DTaP over Tdap vaccination in adult hematopoietic cell transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND: Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients have reduced antibody titers to tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. Tdap is approved for revaccinating adult HCT recipients in the United States, whereas DTaP is not approved in this population. To our knowledge, no studies to date have compared responses to DTaP versus Tdap in adult HCT patients. We conducted a retrospective study comparing responses to DTaP versus Tdap vaccines in otherwise similar adult HCT patients in order to determine if one of these vaccines elicits superior antibody responses. METHODS: We evaluated 43 allogeneic and autologous transplant recipients as a combined cohort and as separate subsets for vaccine specific antibody titers and proportion of strong vaccine responders. Subset analysis focused on the autologous transplant recipients. RESULTS: Higher median antibody titers were found to all vaccine components among DTaP recipients (diphtheria p = .021, pertussis p = .020, tetanus p = .007). DTaP recipients also had more strong responders to diphtheria and pertussis (diphtheria p = .002, pertussis p = .006). Among the autologous HCT recipient subset, there were more strong responders to diphtheria (p = .036). CONCLUSIONS: Our data shows that post-HCT vaccination with DTaP leads to higher antibody titers and more strong responders, which suggests that DTaP is more effective than Tdap in HCT recipients.

Do vaccinations influence the development of Alzheimer disease?

A growing literature supports a protective association between vaccines targeting an array of pathogens (e.g., influenza, pneumococcus, herpes zoster) and the risk of Alzheimer disease (AD). This article discusses the potential underlying mechanisms for this apparent protective effect of immunizations against infectious pathogens on the risk of AD; explores the basic and pharmacoepidemiologic evidence for this association, with particular attention paid to important methodological variations among the epidemiologic studies; and reviews the remaining uncertainties regarding the effects of anti-pathogen vaccines on Alzheimer disease and all-cause dementia, with recommendations for future directions to address those uncertainties.

Seroprevalence against Diphtheria in Pregnant Women and Newborns in Colombia: New Arguments to Promote Maternal Immunization.

The tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended during pregnancy for neonatal protection against pertussis, although little is known of the protection it provides against diphtheria. The work used a cross-sectional design to estimate seroprevalence against diphtheria in 805 pregnant women with ≥37 gestation weeks and their newborns whose deliveries were attended in eight hospitals randomly chosen from a subregion of Antioquia, Colombia and to explore factors related with maternal protection. Levels of IgG antibodies were determined by using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test. Placental transfer of antibodies and crude and adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) were analyzed to describe factors related with maternal protection against diphtheria. Protection against diphtheria was observed in 91.7% (95% CI 90.3-93.0) of the pregnant women and 93.1% (95% CI 91.7-94.4) of newborns, whose antibody levels were positively correlated (Spearman's r = 0.769; p = 0.000). Maternal protection could be influenced by having been vaccinated during the current pregnancy (aPR 0.85, 95% CI: 0.82-0.93). The protective effect of vaccination during pregnancy and the efficiency of maternal antibody transfers were detected. Public health efforts should focus on increasing Tdap vaccination during each pregnancy to protect mothers and newborns against diphtheria.

Successful seroconversion against diphtheria and tetanus induced through maternal vaccination in a region of Colombia.

PURPOSE: This study aims to compare protection against diphtheria and tetanus conferred on the mother and the neonate before and after maternal vaccination against tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap), transfer of antibodies, and the variables that could impact on the protection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study followed a cohort of 200 pregnant women from a region in Colombia, contacted during prenatal control before vaccination and upon delivery. The work determined immunoglobulin G antibodies against diphtheria and tetanus of pregnant women and umbilical cord. The proportion of protection, the geometric mean of the concentration, and the transfer of maternal antibodies were calculated. The protection profile of the pregnant women was explored by using multiple correspondence analysis. RESULTS: The concentration of antibodies against diphtheria was significant before and after vaccination of the pregnant women (p=0.000) with proportions of 85.0% and 97.5%, respectively, and of 98.6% in the umbilical cord, with significant antibody correlation (Spearman's coefficient=0.668, p=0.01). Sero-protection against tetanus before vaccination was at 71.0%, after at 92.6%, and in the umbilical cord at 95.9%, with significant antibody concentration before and after vaccination (p=0.000) and antibody correlation (Spearman's coefficient=0.936, p=0.01). Sero-protection was higher when the pregnant women were vaccine 8 to 11 weeks before delivery. Unprotected pregnant women were those not vaccinated during pregnancy. CONCLUSION: The high proportion of protection against diphtheria and tetanus and the placental transfer support the need to promote maternal immunization with Tdap.

Factores que influyen en la adherencia a la vacuna contra la tosferina en mujeres embarazadas en Uruguay / Factors that influence the uptake of pertussis vaccine in pregnant women in Uruguay

INTRODUCCIÓN: Desde 2015 se ofrece la vacunación contra tosferina de modo universal y gratuito a mujeres embarazadas del Uruguay. Si bien es obligatoria, la cobertura vacunal, aún no es completa. OBJETIVOS: Conocer la prevalencia de mujeres embarazadas de dos hospitales públicos de Uruguay que recibieron vacuna dpaT en 2017 y determinar posibles factores que influyen en la adherencia a vacunarse. MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional, transversal, descriptivo, mediante encuestas a pacientes cursando puerperio inmediato. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 884 encuestas (edad promedio 25,2 años; 16% adolescentes; la mayoría en pareja y educación secundaria incompleta). Se vacunaron 317 mujeres (36%). Dentro de los factores que se asociaron a la no vacunación se destacan: adolescencia (OR 1,88; IC 95% 1,24-2,85), no tener pareja (OR 1,40; IC 95% 1,04-1,85), no conocer la obligatoriedad de la vacuna (OR 9,44; IC 95% 6,63-13,45), no haber sido informada sobre los beneficios de la vacuna (OR 4; IC 95% 2,43-6,41) y no creer en el beneficio de las vacunas en el embarazo (OR 6,37; IC 95% 4,61-8,78). DISCUSIÓN: La mayoría de las mujeres embarazadas no recibieron la vacuna dpaT ni tuvieron indicación médica. La falta de información sobre la obligatoriedad y su beneficio, y las creencias con respecto a la vacunación se asociaron a una disminución en la adherencia a la misma. Los profesionales de la salud que atienden mujeres gestantes deben recomendar e informar sobre el beneficio de la vacunación para ellas y el neonato y generar la percepción de riesgo necesaria, como una de las medidas para mejorar la cobertura vacunal.

BACKGROUND: Since 2015, pertussis vaccine has been offered universally and free of charge to pregnant women in Uruguay. Although it is mandatory, vaccination coverage is not yet complete. AIM: To study the pertussis vaccination coverage in 2017 in pregnant women in two state hospitals and to search for barriere for uptaking the vaccine. METHODS: We conducted an observational, descriptive and transversal study, using a survey in patients undergoing immediate postpartum period. RESULTS: 884 surveys were analyzed (mean age 25.2 years; 16% teenagers, most of them in a relationship and incomplete high school). 317 women (36%) were vaccinated. Main barriere for uptaking Tdap vaccine were: teenage and being single were associated with a greater risk for the uptake. Not being aware of the vaccine mandatoriness and not being informed about its benefits were associated with 9,44 and 4 higher risks for not uptaking the vaccine (IC 95% 6.63-13.45 and IC 95% 2.43-6.41, respectively). Not believing in the benefits of pertussis vaccine during pregnancy was associated with 6.37 higher risk (OR 6.37; IC 95% 4.61-8.78). DISCUSSION: Most pregnant women in this study during 2017 did not uptake pertussis vaccine and did not have medical indication for it. The lack of information about the obligation and benefits, and also patients' beliefs about the vaccination were identified as barriere. Health professionals who treat pregnant women should recommend and inform about the benefits of pertussis vaccine for women and the infant, and create the necessary perception of risk, in order to improve the vaccination coverage.

Factores que influyen en la adherencia a la vacuna contra la tosferina en mujeres embarazadas en Uruguay / Factors that influence the uptake of pertussis vaccine in pregnant women in Uruguay

Introducción: desde 2015 se ofrece la vacunación contra tosferina de modo universal y gratuito a mujeres embarazadas del Uruguay. Si bien es obligatoria, la cobertura vacunal, aún no es completa. Objetivos: conocer la prevalencia de mujeres embarazadas de dos hospitales públicos de Uruguay que recibieron vacuna dpaT en 2017 y determinar posibles factores que influyen en la adherencia a vacunarse. Métodos: estudio observacional, transversal, descriptivo, mediante encuestas a pacientes cursando puerperio inmediato. Resultados: se analizaron 884 encuestas (edad promedio 25,2 años; 16% adolescentes; la mayoría en pareja y educación secundaria incompleta). Se vacunaron 317 mujeres (36%). Dentro de los factores que se asociaron a la no vacunación se destacan: adolescencia (OR 1,88; IC 95% 1,24-2,85), no tener pareja (OR 1,40; IC 95% 1,04-1,85), no conocer la obligatoriedad de la vacuna (OR 9,44; IC 95% 6,63-13,45), no haber sido informada sobre los beneficios de la vacuna (OR 4; IC 95% 2,43-6,41) y no creer en el beneficio de las vacunas en el embarazo (OR 6,37; IC 95% 4,61-8,78). Discusión: la mayoría de las mujeres embarazadas no recibieron la vacuna dpaT ni tuvieron indicación médica. La falta de información sobre la obligatoriedad y su beneficio, y las creencias con respecto a la vacunación se asociaron a una disminución en la adherencia a la misma. Los profesionales de la salud que atienden mujeres gestantes deben recomendar e informar sobre el beneficio de la vacunación para ellas y el neonato y generar la percepción de riesgo necesaria, como una de las medidas para mejorar la cobertura vacunal.

Background: since 2015, pertussis vaccine has been offered universally and free of charge to pregnant women in Uruguay. Although it is mandatory, vaccination coverage is not yet complete. Aim: to study the pertussis vaccination coverage in 2017 in pregnant women in two state hospitals and to search for barriere for uptaking the vaccine. Methods: we conducted an observational, descriptive and transversal study, using a survey in patients undergoing immediate postpartum period. Results: 884 surveys were analyzed (mean age 25.2 years; 16% teenagers, most of them in a relationship and incomplete high school). 317 women (36%) were vaccinated. Main barriere for uptaking Tdap vaccine were: teenage and being single were associated with a greater risk for the uptake. Not being aware of the vaccine mandatoriness and not being informed about its benefits were associated with 9,44 and 4 higher risks for not uptaking the vaccine (IC 95% 6.63-13.45 and IC 95% 2.43-6.41, respectively). Not believing in the benefits of pertussis vaccine during pregnancy was associated with 6.37 higher risk (OR 6.37; IC 95% 4.61-8.78). Discussion: most pregnant women in this study during 2017 did not uptake pertussis vaccine and did not have medical indication for it. The lack of information about the obligation and benefits, and also patients' beliefs about the vaccination were identified as barriere. Health professionals who treat pregnant women should recommend and inform about the benefits of pertussis vaccine for women and the infant, and create the necessary perception of risk, in order to improve the vaccination coverage.

[Evaluation of the safety of diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis containing combination vaccines in Chengdu, 2015-2019].

Objective: To evaluate the safety of diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis (DTaP) containing combination vaccines used in Chengdu. Methods: The AEFI reports data of DTaP vaccine, DTaP-Haemophilus influenza type b combined vaccine (DTaP-Hib) and DTaP-inactivated poliovirus-Hib combined vaccine (DTaP-IPV-Hib) in Chengdu from 2015 to 2019 were collected through the national immunization management system. Description epidemiological method was used to analyze the data. Results: From 2015 to 2019, a total of 8 234 cases of AEFI of DTaP containing combination vaccines were reported in Chengdu, with a reported incidence of 194.55/100 000 doses, including 7 897 cases of common adverse reaction (168.59 per 100 000) and 234 cases of rare adverse reaction (5.53 per 100 000). The DTaP vaccine reported 4 240 cases AEFI (140.63 per 100 000), the DTaP-Hib vaccine reported 2 490 cases AEFI (399.09 per 100 000) and the DTaP-IPV-Hib vaccine reported 1 504 cases AEFI (253.49 per 100 000). All the three vaccines had the highest incidence for the booster doses; the rare adverse reaction were mainly Anaphylactic Reaction (6.27 per 100 000). Conclusions: The AEFI monitor system had high sensitivity, and the rare adverse reaction rate was extremely low, all the vaccines had good safety profiles. The Thrombocytopenic purpura and Laryngeal Edema should be paid more attention to.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of universal adult immunization with tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) versus current practice in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: A pertussis outbreak occurred in Brazil from 2011 to 2014, despite high coverage of whole-cell pertussis containing vaccines in early childhood. Infants were the most affected. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of introducing universal adult vaccination with Tdap into the National Immunization Program in Brazil. METHODS: Economic evaluation using a dynamic model to compare two strategies: (1) universal vaccination with single dose of Tdap at 20 years of age and (2) current practice (only pregnant women pertussis vaccination). The health system perspective was adopted. Temporal horizon was 10 years. Discount rate of 5% was applied to costs and benefits. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) was obtained from a population-based observational study. Epidemiological, resource utilization and cost estimates were obtained from the Brazilian Health Information Systems. The primary outcome was cost per life year saved (LYS), based on life expectancy at birth in Brazil in 2015. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analysis were performed. RESULTS: Adult vaccination with VE of 82.6% and coverage of 40%, at price of US$7.01 per dose, and assuming herd protection would avoid 167 infant deaths by pertussis, saving 12,325 years of life and costing a total of US$105495891.61, from the health system perspective. The universal immunization would result in ICER of US$8459.13. The results were highly sensitive to disease incidence. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that universal adult vaccination with Tdap would not be a cost-effective intervention for preventing pertussis cases and deaths in infants in Brazil.

Low tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine coverage among healthcare workers in a quaternary university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil: need for continuous surveillance and implementation of active strategies

Abstract Introduction: Vaccination with tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) has been recommended for healthcare workers (HCWs) by Brazilian Ministry of Health since November 2014. Objective: To describe the strategies implemented to improve Tdap uptake, cumulative vaccine coverage after each intervention, variables associated to Tdap vaccination, and reasons for non-vaccination among HCWs of the main building of a quaternary hospital attached to the Sao Paulo University Medical School. Methods: A list of HCWs eligible for pertussis vaccination was generated. From April to December 2015, the following interventions were implemented: note on intern journal reminding the importance of pertussis vaccination; email to the head nurses strengthening vaccine recommendations; lectures on pertussis and Tdap for physicians of Obstetrics and Neonatology Clinics; on-site vaccination by mobile teams at the Obstetrics, Neonatology, and Anesthesiology Clinics. Vaccine coverage was accessed at the end of each month. Multivariate Poisson regression model with a robust error variance was used to evaluate variables associated with Tdap vaccination. Reasons for non-vaccination were evaluated from January to May 2017 through phone calls for HCWs who had not received Tdap. Results: The study included 456 HCWs. After the interventions, Tdap coverage raised from 2.8% to 41.2%. In the multivariate analysis, occupation (physician), working place (obstetrics or anesthesiology) and influenza vaccination in 2015 were independently associated to Tdap vaccination. The main reason for non-vaccination was unawareness of Tdap recommendations. Conclusions: Tdap uptake among HCWs was low in our hospital. Providing vaccination at convenient places/times for HCW seems to be the most efficient strategy to increase vaccine uptake.

Low tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine coverage among healthcare workers in a quaternary university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil: need for continuous surveillance and implementation of active strategies.

INTRODUCTION: Vaccination with tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) has been recommended for healthcare workers (HCWs) by Brazilian Ministry of Health since November 2014. OBJECTIVE: To describe the strategies implemented to improve Tdap uptake, cumulative vaccine coverage after each intervention, variables associated to Tdap vaccination, and reasons for non-vaccination among HCWs of the main building of a quaternary hospital attached to the Sao Paulo University Medical School. METHODS: A list of HCWs eligible for pertussis vaccination was generated. From April to December 2015, the following interventions were implemented: note on intern journal reminding the importance of pertussis vaccination; email to the head nurses strengthening vaccine recommendations; lectures on pertussis and Tdap for physicians of Obstetrics and Neonatology Clinics; on-site vaccination by mobile teams at the Obstetrics, Neonatology, and Anesthesiology Clinics. Vaccine coverage was accessed at the end of each month. Multivariate Poisson regression model with a robust error variance was used to evaluate variables associated with Tdap vaccination. Reasons for non-vaccination were evaluated from January to May 2017 through phone calls for HCWs who had not received Tdap. RESULTS: The study included 456 HCWs. After the interventions, Tdap coverage raised from 2.8% to 41.2%. In the multivariate analysis, occupation (physician), working place (obstetrics or anesthesiology) and influenza vaccination in 2015 were independently associated to Tdap vaccination. The main reason for non-vaccination was unawareness of Tdap recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: Tdap uptake among HCWs was low in our hospital. Providing vaccination at convenient places/times for HCW seems to be the most efficient strategy to increase vaccine uptake.

Pharmacists' Attitudes and Practices Regarding Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccination in Pregnancy and Surrounding Newborns.

BACKGROUND: Bordetella pertussis or whooping cough is a serious and vaccine-preventable illness. Despite widespread vaccination in the pediatric population, pertussis still infects approximately 100,000 infants each year in the United States. The purpose of this study was to determine gaps in pharmacists’ understanding, attitudes, practices, and barriers surrounding the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccination recommendation for patients who are pregnant or planning to come in close contact with infants. METHODS: This study was a descriptive, exploratory electronic survey. The survey assessed three major areas; the role of the pharmacist in Tdap vaccination, perceived barriers to vaccination, and understanding the recommendations. RESULTS: A total of 225 pharmacists responded to the survey. Pharmacists who responded to this survey agreed that pharmacists should have a role vaccinating the public and individuals expecting to come into contact with a newborn, (88.5% and 86.9%) respectively, but fewer agreed that pharmacists should have a role vaccinating pregnant women against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (77%, p < 0.001). Based on the responses to case scenarios, only 22.5% and 30.6% of respondents understood the recommendations. Numerous barriers to vaccinating pregnant women were identified. CONCLUSION: While most pharmacists surveyed felt they should have a role in vaccinating pregnant women and those expecting to come in contact with a newborn, there are barriers to implementing this practice. Future efforts should focus on further evaluating identified gaps and developing programs for pharmacists that emphasize the significance of vaccinating these patients to reduce the burden of pertussis in infants.

A survey of the domestic epidemiological characteristics and clinical manifestations of pertussis

PURPOSE: This report describes the results of a survey of the characteristics of pertussis in children from a single institution and compares it to data from the Korea Centers of Disease Control (KCDC). METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of 17 and 6 patients diagnosed with pertussis and parapertussis, respectively, at Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital from January 2005 to January 2017. RESULTS: Of the 17 patients with pertussis, 9 were under 1 year of age (52.9%), 3 were aged between 1 and 10 years (17.6%), and 5 were over 10 years of age (29.4%). Seven patients (41.2%) had never received diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis vaccines, of which 5 were infants below 2 months of age and 2 were 10 years old and lived in China. Four patients showed the initial symptoms of cough in China. The sources of infection were the parents (2 cases) and the siblings (8 cases). All patients showed prolonged severe cough and the average duration of cough was 26 days. Severe symptoms, including dyspnea, cyanosis, apnea, and seizures, were observed in the children under 2 months of age. According to the recent 10-year KCDC data, the highest rate of pertussis diagnosis was noted in infants (47.8%), followed by adolescents (18.7%). Six patients with parapertussis also presented with prolonged severe cough without any other severe symptoms. Lymphocytosis was not found, unlike the patients with pertussis. CONCLUSION: The possibility of pertussis and parapertussis should be considered among patients with prolonged severe cough, especially in infants and adolescents.

Expanding Pertussis Epidemiology in 6 Latin America Countries through the Latin American Pertussis Project.

The Latin American Pertussis Project (LAPP), established in 2009, is a collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pan American Health Organization, Sabin Vaccine Institute, and the ministries of health of 6 countries in Latin America. The project goal is to expand understanding of pertussis epidemiology in Latin America to inform strategies for control and prevention. Here we describe LAPP structure and activities. After an initial surveillance evaluation, LAPP activities are tailored to individual country needs. LAPP activities align with Global Health Security Agenda priorities and have focused on expanding laboratory diagnostic capacity, implementing a laboratory quality control and quality assurance program, and providing epidemiologic support to strengthen reporting of pertussis surveillance data. Lessons learned include that ongoing mentoring is key to the successful adoption of new technologies and that sustainability of laboratory diagnostics requires a regional commitment to procure reagents and related supplies.

Tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccination for adults: an update.

Although tetanus and diphtheria have become rare in developed countries, pertussis is still endemic in some developed countries. These are vaccine-preventable diseases and vaccination for adults is important to prevent the outbreak of disease. Strategies for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines vary from country to country. Each country needs to monitor consistently epidemiology of the diseases and changes vaccination policies accordingly. Recent studies showed that tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccine for adults is effective and safe to prevent pertussis disease in infants. However, vaccine coverage still remains low than expected and seroprevalence of protective antibodies levels for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis decline with aging. The importance of tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccine administration should be emphasized for the protection of young adult and elderly people also, not limited to children.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of pertussis epidemiology in Latin America and the Caribbean: 1980-2015.

OBJECTIVES: In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), pertussis disease incidence has reportedly increased since 2000 despite high vaccine coverage. A systematic review of pertussis literature and a meta-analysis was conducted to understand the burden of disease in LAC. METHODS: A systematic literature review was completed, using relevant search terms. Original articles describing pertussis epidemiology and vaccine coverage in LAC published between 1980 and 2015 were identified. Applying a Bayesian meta-analysis random-effects model, we calculated pooled estimates and corresponding 95% credible intervals (95% CrIs) for pertussis incidence, case fatality ratio (CFR), pertussis prevalence among contacts, and coverage with three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine (DTP3). RESULTS: A total of 59 studies meeting our selection criteria were identified, representing 15 countries. Of the 59, 15 of them provided incidence data, with 7 of the 15 reporting a pertussis case definition. The pertussis incidence estimate for the 1980-1999 period was 17.8 cases per 100 000 persons (95% CrI: 5.9-29.7); for the 2000-2015 period, it was 2.5 cases per 100 000 persons (95% CrI: 1.8-3.2). For the 1980-2015 period, the CFR, in 19 studies reviewed, was 3.9% (95% CrI: 2.9%-4.9%); for that same period, in 5 studies reviewed, pertussis prevalence among contacts was 24.9% (95% CrI: 13.7%-36.1%). Pooled DTP3 vaccine coverage estimates, in a total of 20 studies reviewed for the following three time periods, were: 1980-1990, 72.4% (95% CrI: 64.6%-80.2%); 1991-2000, 79.0% (95% CrI: 66.1%-91.9%); and 2001-2015, 90.0% (95% CrI: 87.7%-92.3%). CONCLUSION: A decrease in pertussis incidence and an achievement of moderately high DTP3 vaccine coverage since the early 2000s was observed. The review highlights the need for increased publication of pertussis data at the country level and for LAC as a whole in order to better understand the true burden of the disease. Application of a standardized case definition and use of active case finding would aid in obtaining more accurate estimates of the disease burden in LAC.

Tetanus–diphtheria–acellular pertussis vaccination for adults: an update

Although tetanus and diphtheria have become rare in developed countries, pertussis is still endemic in some developed countries. These are vaccine-preventable diseases and vaccination for adults is important to prevent the outbreak of disease. Strategies for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines vary from country to country. Each country needs to monitor consistently epidemiology of the diseases and changes vaccination policies accordingly. Recent studies showed that tetanus–diphtheria–acellular pertussis vaccine for adults is effective and safe to prevent pertussis disease in infants. However, vaccine coverage still remains low than expected and seroprevalence of protective antibodies levels for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis decline with aging. The importance of tetanus–diphtheria–acellular pertussis vaccine administration should be emphasized for the protection of young adult and elderly people also, not limited to children.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of pertussis epidemiology in Latin America and the Caribbean: 1980-2015 / Examen sistemático y metanálisis de las características epidemiológicas de la tos ferina en América Latina y el Caribe: 1980-2015 / Revisão sistemática e metanálise da epidemiologia da coqueluche na América Latina e Caribe: 1980 a 2015

Objectives In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), pertussis disease incidence has reportedly increased since 2000 despite high vaccine coverage. A systematic review of pertussis literature and a meta-analysis was conducted to understand the burden of disease in LAC. Methods A systematic literature review was completed, using relevant search terms. Original articles describing pertussis epidemiology and vaccine coverage in LAC published between 1980 and 2015 were identified. Applying a Bayesian meta-analysis random-effects model, we calculated pooled estimates and corresponding 95% credible intervals (95% CrIs) for pertussis incidence, case fatality ratio (CFR), pertussis prevalence among contacts, and coverage with three doses of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccine (DTP3). Results A total of 59 studies meeting our selection criteria were identified, representing 15 countries. Of the 59, 15 of them provided incidence data, with 7 of the 15 reporting a pertussis case definition. The pertussis incidence estimate for the 1980-1999 period was 17.8 cases per 100 000 persons (95% CrI: 5.9-29.7); for the 2000-2015 period, it was 2.5 cases per 100 000 persons (95% CrI: 1.8-3.2). For the 1980-2015 period, the CFR, in 19 studies reviewed, was 3.9% (95% CrI: 2.9%-4.9%); for that same period, in 5 studies reviewed, pertussis prevalence among contacts was 24.9% (95% CrI: 13.7%-36.1%). Pooled DTP3 vaccine coverage estimates, in a total of 20 studies reviewed for the following three time periods, were: 1980-1990, 72.4% (95% CrI: 64.6%-80.2%); 1991-2000, 79.0% (95% CrI: 66.1%-91.9%); and 2001-2015, 90.0% (95% CrI: 87.7%-92.3%). Conclusion A decrease in pertussis incidence and an achievement of moderately high DTP3 vaccine coverage since the early 2000s was observed. The review highlights the need for increased publication of pertussis data at the country level and for LAC as a whole in order to better understand the true burden of the disease. Application of a standardized case definition and use of active case finding would aid in obtaining more accurate estimates of the disease burden in LAC.

RESUMEN Objetivos En América Latina y el Caribe, la incidencia de la tos ferina habría aparentemente aumentado desde el 2000, a pesar de la alta cobertura de vacunación. Se realizó una revisión sistemática de la bibliografía sobre tos ferina y un metanálisis para conocer la carga de esta enfermedad en América Latina y el Caribe. Métodos. La revisión bibliográfica sistemática se realizó utilizando términos de búsqueda pertinentes. Se encontraron artículos originales que describían las características epidemiológicas de la tos ferina y la cobertura de vacunación en América Latina y el Caribe publicados entre 1980 y el 2015. Aplicando un modelo bayesiano de efectos aleatorios para el metanálisis, se obtuvieron estimaciones combinadas y los correspondientes intervalos de credibilidad del 95% (ICr) para la incidencia, la tasa de letalidad y la prevalencia entre contactos de la tos ferina, y la cobertura con tres dosis de vacuna contra la difteria, el tétanos y la tos ferina (DTP3). Resultados Se encontraron en total 59 estudios de 15 países que cumplían con los criterios de selección. De ellos, 15 proporcionaban datos sobre incidencia. Siete de estos 15 contenían una definición de caso de tos ferina. La incidencia estimada de tos ferina para el período 1980-1999 fue de 17,8 casos por 100 000 (ICr 95%: 5,9-29,7) y para el período 2000-2015, de 2,5 casos por 100 000 (ICr 95%: 1,8-3,2). En cuanto a la tasa de letalidad, para el período 1980-2015 en 19 estudios examinados fue de 3,9% (ICr 95%: 2,9%-4,9%); en el mismo período, en 5 estudios examinados la prevalencia de tos ferina entre los contactos fue de 24,9% (ICr 95%: 13,7%-36,1%). Las estimaciones combinadas de cobertura con DTP3 en un total de 21 estudios examinados para los siguientes tres períodos fueron: en 1980-1990, 72,4% (ICr 95%: 64,6%-80,2%); en 1991-2000, 79,0% (ICr 95%: 66,1%-91,9%) y en el 2001-2015, 90,0% (ICr 95%: 87,7%-92,3%). Conclusiones Se observó una disminución de la incidencia de la tos ferina y el logro de una cobertura moderadamente alta con la vacuna DTP3 desde principios del siglo XXI. En el examen se subraya la necesidad de incrementar la publicación de datos sobre la tos ferina en los países y en América Latina y el Caribe en su conjunto, para conocer mejor la verdadera carga de enfermedad. La adopción de una definición de caso normalizada y la búsqueda activa de casos ayudarán a obtener estimaciones más precisas de la carga de enfermedad en América Latina y el Caribe.

RESUMO Objetivos Há relatos de que a incidência de coqueluche na América Latina e Caribe (ALC) tem aumentado desde o ano 2000, apesar da alta cobertura vacinal. Realizamos uma revisão sistemática e metanálise da literatura sobre a coqueluche para compreender a carga da doença na ALC. Métodos. Fizemos uma revisão sistemática da literatura usando termos de pesquisa relevantes. Identificamos artigos originais, publicados entre 1980 e 2015, que descrevessem a epidemiologia da coqueluche e a cobertura vacinal na ALC. Aplicando um modelo Bayesiano de efeitos aleatórios para a metanálise, calculamos estimativas agrupadas e seus correspondentes intervalos de credibilidade de 95% (CrIs 95%) para a incidência de coqueluche, a taxa de letalidade, a prevalência de coqueluche entre os contatos e a cobertura com três doses da vacina combinada para difteria, tétano e coqueluche (DTP3). Resultados Identificamos um total de 59 estudos que cumpriram os nossos critérios de seleção, representando 15 países. Destes 59, 15 apresentaram dados sobre a incidência, e 7 dos 15 apresentaram uma definição de "caso de coqueluche". A incidência estimada da coqueluche no período de 1980 a 1999 foi de 17,8 casos por 100.000 pessoas (CrI 95%: 5,9-29,7); no período de 2000 a 2015, foi de 2,5 casos por 100.000 pessoas (CrI 95%: 1,8-3,2). No período de 1980 a 2015, a taxa de letalidade, em 19 estudos revistos, foi de 3,9% (CrI 95%: 2,9%-4,9%); neste mesmo período, em 5 estudos revistos, a prevalência de coqueluche entre os contatos foi de 24,9% (CrI 95%: 13,7%-36,1%). A cobertura vacinal agrupada com DTP3, em um total de 21 estudos examinados nos seguintes três períodos, foi estimada em: 1980 a 1990, 72,4% (CrI 95%: 64,6%-80,2%); 1991 a 2000, 79,0% (CrI 95%: 66,1%-91,9%); 2001 a 2015, 90,0% (CrI 95%: 87,7%-92,3%). Conclusões Foi observada uma redução na incidência de coqueluche e uma cobertura vacinal com DTP3 relativamente alta desde o início da década de 2000. Esta revisão destaca a necessidade de melhorar a publicação de dados sobre a coqueluche ao nível nacional e na ALC como um todo, a fim de promover uma melhor compreensão sobre a verdadeira carga da doença. O uso de uma definição padronizada de "caso de coqueluche" e a busca ativa de casos ajudaria na obtenção de estimativas mais precisas da carga da doença na ALC.

[Acellular vaccines (DTPa/dTpa) against whooping cough, protection duration]. / Vacunas acelulares (DTPa/dTpa) contra la tos ferina: duración de la protección.

INTRODUCTION: An increase in whooping cough in most of the developed countries has been detected in the last decade. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the administration of dTpa vaccine instead of DTPa fifth dose is contributing to the appearance of these cases. METHODS: A descriptive study based on cases of whooping cough reported during an epidemic period in the city of Alicante in the first 5 months of 2014. Only pertussis cases confirmed by PCR were included in the study, and only those vaccinated with 5 doses were included in the analysis of the period of protection. RESULTS: A total of 104 cases of pertussis confirmed by PCR were reported, with 85 cases (82%) having had 5 doses of vaccine. The mean time and standard deviation (SD) of protection was 2.1±1.1 years with dTpa, and 5.1±1.5 years with DTPa (p<.001). In the protection, adjusted for age, it was observed that, after 3 years, only 47.6% of people vaccinated with dTpa were still protected, while people vaccinated with DTPa were 100% protected (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study found that people who were properly vaccinated against pertussis and received their last re-vaccination dose with dTpa had a shorter period of protection than those who were vaccinated with DTPa.