Pertussis cases surge in the UK and US, impacting young children; FDA approves mRNA RSV vaccine for adults over 60, citing significant efficacy in trials. Vaccination advice crucial amid global health concerns.
Whooping Cough Resurgence in the US and UK
Whooping cough, known medically as pertussis, is experiencing a resurgence in the United Kingdom and the United States, particularly affecting young children. In the UK, five infants have died from the disease in 2023, with nearly 3,000 reported cases—a peak not seen in over four decades. Pertussis is highly infectious, posing a significant threat to young children whose immune systems are still developing.
Across the Atlantic, the US is witnessing a similar spike in elementary schools, including areas such as New York City and San Francisco. Recorded cases in the US have surpassed 4,800 this year, marking a 270% increase compared to the same period last year. Authorities are yet to report any fatalities, and it remains unclear if the cases involve unvaccinated individuals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pertussis cases in the US have been rising since the beginning of 2024, which could exceed the 5,346 recorded cases in 2023. States like Pennsylvania and Oregon report significant upticks, with Pennsylvania noting the highest state count at 601 infections.
Globally, pertussis rates are also climbing, with China reporting over 32,000 cases by February this year—a substantial rise from 1,400 the previous year. Experts attribute the resurgence to declining vaccination rates and waning immunity among adults.
In the UK, Kerry Pearson has publicly urged others to get vaccinated following her daughter Polly’s severe bout with the illness, which led to a 10-day coma. The CDC recommends five doses of the DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) vaccine for children, and booster shots for adults every ten years, including specific vaccination guidance for pregnant women to protect newborns.
The disease spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs. While adults generally experience mild symptoms, infants face severe risks, including intense coughing fits that can lead to oxygen deprivation and secondary infections like pneumonia, which can be fatal.
FDA Approves New RSV Vaccine
In other health news, the FDA has approved Moderna’s RSV vaccine, mResvia, for adults aged 60 and older. This is the third RSV vaccine sanctioned by the FDA and the first of its kind using mRNA technology. RSV, another respiratory illness, is particularly dangerous for the elderly, causing significant hospitalizations and deaths annually. Moderna’s vaccine has shown an 83.7% efficacy rate in preventing lower respiratory tract disease in clinical trials.
The CDC will decide on recommending the new vaccine at a meeting on June 26. The approval aims to provide additional protection during the 2024-2025 RSV season.
Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare providers for vaccination advice and information.