Student Health Services

Pertussis in Oregon: Vaccination Strongly Recommended

(Updated 6-10-13) In 2012 in Oregon, there were 910 cases of pertussis, compared with 328 cases during the same time in 2011. The case ages ranged from 8 days to 90 years; median age was 10 years old. Twenty-five infants were hospitalized; 24 of them were 3 months old or younger.

The best way to protect an infant is to be vaccinated yourself. The state health department is strongly advising that adolescents and adults receive the Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap) immunization. A Tdap booster can be given anytime regardless of the date of one’s last tetanus booster. OSU students can receive the Tdap vaccine at Student Health Services for a fee. Call 541-737-9355 to make an appointment.

The majority of cases occurred in the Portland Metro area, though there were cases reported throughout the state. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends pregnant women get a Tdap booster vaccination during each and every pregnancy.

For more information about pertussis symptoms, complications, how it spreads, and how it can be prevented, go to studenthealth.oregonstate.edu/pertussis.