Pertussis (whooping cough) is a cyclical disease that continues to affect a significant number of Maine residents.
Maine CDC issued a health alert with an update on pertussis on Aug. 4. It is available here: http://go.usa.gov/NEG4
As of August 4, providers reported a total of 254 pertussis cases from 15 Maine counties. Washington county has the highest rate in the state of 114.94 cases per 100,000 persons compared to the state's case rate of 19.12 cases per 100,000 persons. Seven Maine counties have rates higher than the state rate (Aroostook, Knox, Lincoln, Oxford, Penobscot, Waldo, and Washington counties).
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Showing posts with label pertussis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pertussis. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Public Health Update 7/24/14
Mosquito-borne diseases
EEE and WNV
Arboviral diseases, including Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV), are very serious infections that are transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Although rare, these diseases have potentially severe and even fatal consequences for those who contract them. Other New England states have already detected both EEE and WNV this summer.
Clinicians should be aware of the potential for human disease activity in Maine, and to consider testing for arboviral disease in patients presenting with unexplained encephalitis, meningitis or fever ≥100.4°F or 38°C during the summer and early fall.
For more information, see the Health Alert from July 2: http://go.usa.gov/X9MV
Weekly arboviral surveillance reports will be posted to the following website through October: http://go.usa.gov/55u3
Chikungunya Chikungunya virus is also transmitted to people by mosquitoes. Outbreaks have occurred in countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In late 2013, chikungunya virus was found for the first time in the Americas on islands in the Caribbean. The first locally acquired case of chikungunya in the US was reported July 17 in Florida. For case information on chikungunya in the US, seehttp://go.usa.gov/55uA. The most common symptoms of chikungunya virus infection are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat chikungunya virus infection. Although US CDC does not expect widespread cases of chikungunya in the United States this summer, American travelers infected overseas may continue to return and bring the virus with them. Travelers can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. When traveling to countries with chikungunya virus, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens. For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/55hP or http://www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/ |
Tick-borne diseases
Ticks are generally found in brushy or wooded areas, near the ground; they cannot jump or fly. Ticks are attracted to a variety of host factors, including body heat and carbon dioxide. They will transfer to a potential host when one brushes directly against them and then seek a site for attachment.
Ticks cause a variety of diseases in Maine, including Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Powassan. More than 1,375 cases of Lyme disease were reported statewide in 2013, a record high for Maine. So far in 2014, there have been 246 reported cases of Lyme disease. Other case counts for tickborne diseases reported in Maine so far in 2014 include:
For more information:
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Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite. Cases are usually reported from May to August. Five cases have been reported in Maine between June 24 and July 21.
Maine CDC issued a Health Alert on July 8 to increase awareness among clinicians about cyclosporiasis and the need to specifically request testing for Cyclospora in patients with prolonged diarrheal illness. The Health Alert is available at http://go.usa.gov/XXDR
Cyclosporiasis is not a reportable condition in Maine due to the low number of cases in previous years (last known case in Maine resident in 2010). However, due to large numbers of cases in the United States in 2013, Maine CDC is requesting providers report cyclosporiasis cases as an unusual condition,
since it is not commonly seen in Maine residents.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/X9tF
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Pertussis (whooping cough)
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a cyclical disease that continues to affect a significant number of Maine residents.
There have been 230 reported cases of pertussis so far in 2014, an increase of 43 cases from two weeks ago.
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
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TB Hero
Dr. Shulamith Bonham, former medical director for Health Care for the Homeless in Portland, has been named 2014 TB Hero by the New England Tuberculosis Consortium.
Dr. Bonham was recognized for creating a low-barrier system for screening and treatment of latent TB infection (LTBI) within the Health Care for the Homeless clinic.
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Hepatitis
Health IT and telemedicine are important tools to help early diagnosis and treatment of the growing problem of hepatitis C (HCV) infection in the United States.
US CDC has launched a new pilot program to help use telemedicine to fight HCV, develop new treatment tools, and get them in the hands of providers to try to stem the tide of HCV infections.
For more information, see: http://www.healthit.gov/buzz-blog/health-innovation/pilot-helps-battle-hepatitis-c-health-telemedicine/
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Heat-related illness
Here in Maine, we don't have very hot weather too often. So when it does get really hot, we are more likely to become sick from heat. This is because our bodies are not used to high heat, and many of our homes and buildings do not have air conditioning.
Certain people like older adults, infants, pregnant women, and people who have chronic diseases or who are sick already may feel much worse or have serious problems in extreme heat.
Heat-related illnesses happen when your body cannot cool itself. Some heat illnesses are mild, like heat rash, sunburn, and heat cramps. Others like heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke can be severe or even life-threatening.
To find out how to keep cool and healthy as the weather gets hotter this summer, go to http://go.usa.gov/X9uw
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Friday, September 6, 2013
Infectious disease update
Giardia
Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease caused by parasites, and it is the most common infectious diarrheal illness reported in Maine. So far in 2013, there have been 131 cases of Giardia reported in Maine, compared to 122 in all of 2012.
Giardiasis tends to occur more frequently in the summer and fall months. Individuals at greatest risk of infection with Giardia include people swallowing contaminated drinking water (such as backpackers or campers), travelers to endemic countries, and people with close contact with infected individuals (including childcare settings) and infected animals.
For more information, go to http://go.usa.gov/DTrF
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a cyclical disease that continues to affect a significant number of Maine residents. Maine CDC issued an update on statewide pertussis on July 30, which can be found at http://go.usa.gov/jdfe
There have been 244 reported cases of pertussis so far this year in Maine. This is less than the 476 reported cases for the same period last year, but is more than the five-year median. Oxford county has the highest rate of pertussis in the state, and the majority of cases have occurred in people ages 7-19.
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Flu
Weekly updates on flu activity will resume in October. Maine CDC reminds everyone to take everyday preventive measures against the flu:
US CDC has published a summary of the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the 2013-2014 flu season at http://go.usa.gov/jdfB
The Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for this coming season’s vaccines are available at http://go.usa.gov/jdAC
Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease caused by parasites, and it is the most common infectious diarrheal illness reported in Maine. So far in 2013, there have been 131 cases of Giardia reported in Maine, compared to 122 in all of 2012.
Giardiasis tends to occur more frequently in the summer and fall months. Individuals at greatest risk of infection with Giardia include people swallowing contaminated drinking water (such as backpackers or campers), travelers to endemic countries, and people with close contact with infected individuals (including childcare settings) and infected animals.
For more information, go to http://go.usa.gov/DTrF
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a cyclical disease that continues to affect a significant number of Maine residents. Maine CDC issued an update on statewide pertussis on July 30, which can be found at http://go.usa.gov/jdfe
There have been 244 reported cases of pertussis so far this year in Maine. This is less than the 476 reported cases for the same period last year, but is more than the five-year median. Oxford county has the highest rate of pertussis in the state, and the majority of cases have occurred in people ages 7-19.
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Flu
Weekly updates on flu activity will resume in October. Maine CDC reminds everyone to take everyday preventive measures against the flu:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow or shoulder
- Stay home when you feel sick
- Get vaccinated
US CDC has published a summary of the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the 2013-2014 flu season at http://go.usa.gov/jdfB
The Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) for this coming season’s vaccines are available at http://go.usa.gov/jdAC
Friday, August 9, 2013
Whooping cough update
Pertussis (whooping cough) is a cyclical disease that continues to affect a significant number of Maine residents. Maine CDC issued an update on statewide pertussis on July 30, which can be found at http://go.usa.gov/jdfe
There have been 210 reported cases of pertussis so far this year in Maine. This is less than the 354 reported cases for the same period last year, but is more than the five-year median of 60 pertussis cases. Oxford county has the highest rate of pertussis in the state, and the majority of cases have occurred in people ages 7-19.
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
There have been 210 reported cases of pertussis so far this year in Maine. This is less than the 354 reported cases for the same period last year, but is more than the five-year median of 60 pertussis cases. Oxford county has the highest rate of pertussis in the state, and the majority of cases have occurred in people ages 7-19.
Maine CDC encourages providers continue to test and treat patients. DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more guidance and information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Maine CDC Public Health Update 12/13/12
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Thirty cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have been reported in children younger than 1 year old in Maine so far this year. Maine CDC has issued new clinical guidance for providers treating infant pertussis. It is available on the Maine CDC website.
Weekly updates on pertussis in Maine are posted to www.mainepublichealth.gov on Thursdays.
DTaP vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. Tdap vaccine is recommended for all preteens, teens, and adults.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Recent health alerts
Influenza
Maine CDC reported regional flu activity for the week ending Dec. 8. Weekly updates are available online:
America's Health Rankings
Maine ranked ninth overall (up from tenth last year) in the recently released America’s Health Rankings by the United Health Foundation.
These rankings are used to stimulate action by individuals, elected officials, medical professionals, public health professionals, employers, educators and communities to improve the health of the population of the U.S.
For more information, visit http://www.americashealthrankings.org/ME
HIV and hepatitis screenings
Recently, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued draft recommendations pertaining to HIV and viral hepatitis screening and is inviting public comments on both.
The Task Force is an independent group of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine that works to improve the health of all Americans by making evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services.
The draft recommendation for HIV screening applies to all people aged 15 to 65 and all pregnant women. Public comments can be submitted online until December 17.
Public comments on the draft recommendations for screening adults for hepatitis C virus infection can be submitted online until December 24.
For more information and to submit comments, go to http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/index.html
Thirty cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have been reported in children younger than 1 year old in Maine so far this year. Maine CDC has issued new clinical guidance for providers treating infant pertussis. It is available on the Maine CDC website.
In total, more than 660 cases of pertussis have been reported in Maine this year, with the majority in children ages 7 to 19. Reported cases appear to be on a downward trend.
Recent health alerts
- Group A Strep: Maine CDC is investigating a cluster of invasive Group A Streptococcal (GAS) infections in patients who have reported a history of injecting bath salts. Four cases of invasive GAS have been reported among persons aged 23-37 years, two of which resulted in Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS). All cases reported injecting bath salts, all required hospitalization, one required intensive care, and one had necrotizing fasciitis. All four cases are from Aroostook and Penobscot counties. The health alert is at: http://go.usa.gov/gPfj
- Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium. Gonococcal infection is reportable to Maine CDC within 48 hours of recognition or strong suspicion of disease. In men, common symptoms include burning sensation when urinating or a white, yellow or green penile discharge. In women, symptoms are uncommon, but may include painful or burning sensation when urinating or increased vaginal discharge. Gonorrhea is a major cause of serious reproductive complications in females. Case reports of gonorrhea in Maine have been increasing in recent years from 96 cases in 2008 to 272 cases in 2011. The health alert is available at: http://go.usa.gov/gPf5
Maine CDC reported regional flu activity for the week ending Dec. 8. Weekly updates are available online:
- for Maine: http://go.usa.gov/NoK
- for the US: http://go.usa.gov/ITB
- for the world: http://go.usa.gov/ITK
Maine CDC reminds everyone to take everyday preventive measures against the flu:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow or shoulder
- Stay home when you feel sick
- Get vaccinated – find locations at www.flu.gov
America's Health Rankings
Maine ranked ninth overall (up from tenth last year) in the recently released America’s Health Rankings by the United Health Foundation.
These rankings are used to stimulate action by individuals, elected officials, medical professionals, public health professionals, employers, educators and communities to improve the health of the population of the U.S.
For more information, visit http://www.americashealthrankings.org/ME
HIV and hepatitis screenings
Recently, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued draft recommendations pertaining to HIV and viral hepatitis screening and is inviting public comments on both.
The Task Force is an independent group of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine that works to improve the health of all Americans by making evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services.
The draft recommendation for HIV screening applies to all people aged 15 to 65 and all pregnant women. Public comments can be submitted online until December 17.
Public comments on the draft recommendations for screening adults for hepatitis C virus infection can be submitted online until December 24.
For more information and to submit comments, go to http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/index.html
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Pertussis (whooping cough) update 7/26/12
Pertussis is endemic in the United States. Although cyclical in nature, a gradual and sustained increase has been observed in the United States after reaching historic lows in the 1970s. In 2010, 27,550 pertussis cases were reported. Year-to-date case counts from 2012 have surpassed those from the previous 5 years for the same period.
To date, 300 cases of pertussis have been reported in Maine this calendar year, compared with 75 cases at the same time last year. The majority of cases have been in Cumberland, Somerset, and Penobscot counties, with most cases in children ages 7 to 19. Weekly pertussis updates are available on the Maine CDC website (http://www.mainepublichealth.gov/), updated every Thursday. This week's update is available at: http://go.usa.gov/fMC
US CDC recently issued a MMWR about the pertussis epidemic in Washington state, which suggests early waning of immunity from acellular pertussis vaccines.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
To date, 300 cases of pertussis have been reported in Maine this calendar year, compared with 75 cases at the same time last year. The majority of cases have been in Cumberland, Somerset, and Penobscot counties, with most cases in children ages 7 to 19. Weekly pertussis updates are available on the Maine CDC website (http://www.mainepublichealth.gov/), updated every Thursday. This week's update is available at: http://go.usa.gov/fMC
US CDC recently issued a MMWR about the pertussis epidemic in Washington state, which suggests early waning of immunity from acellular pertussis vaccines.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Pertussis (whooping cough) update 6/14/12
Maine, like many other states, has been experiencing an increasing number of pertussis (whooping cough) cases over the past year. Maine CDC is posting weekly pertussis updates on its website. Today’s update is available at http://go.usa.gov/vxX
Maine CDC has issued public service announcements about vaccinating adults that have contact with infants against pertussis in English and Spanish. These videos were created with permission from the Texas Department of State Health Service.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO or this US CDC blog
Maine CDC has issued public service announcements about vaccinating adults that have contact with infants against pertussis in English and Spanish. These videos were created with permission from the Texas Department of State Health Service.
For more information, visit http://go.usa.gov/dCO or this US CDC blog
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Pertussis (whooping cough) update 6/7/12
There have been a total of 111* pertussis cases reported statewide through June 6, 2012, compared to 50 reported cases in 2011 during the same period. *Additional cases may have occurred especially in the most recent weeks that are not included in this report.
The full weekly pertussis update is available on our website.
Maine CDC issued a health alert about increasing pertussis on May 15.
See our new PSA in English:
And Spanish:
The full weekly pertussis update is available on our website.
Maine CDC issued a health alert about increasing pertussis on May 15.
See our new PSA in English:
And Spanish:
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Pertussis
Maine, like many other states, has been experiencing an increasing number of pertussis cases over the past year. Between January 1 and May 11 of this year, 55 pertussis cases have been reported to Maine CDC from nine Maine counties.
For more information, see Maine CDC’s May 15 Health Alert (http://go.usa.gov/pa9) or visit http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Pertussis/
More than 200 cases of pertussis were reported to Maine CDC in 2011, far exceeding the 53 reported cases in 2010 and the 10-year average of 82 cases per year.
Clusters of pertussis have occurred in schools, child care centers, camps, sport teams, and workplaces. Pertussis is a highly communicable, vaccine-preventable disease that can last for many weeks. It is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory secretions of infected persons. Classic pertussis symptoms include paroxysmal cough, whoop, and posttussive vomiting. Pertussis can cause serious illness and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants. More than half of infants less than 1 year of age who get pertussis must be hospitalized.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Pertussis 2011 Summary
More than 200 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) were reported to
Maine CDC during 2011, far exceeding the number of reported cases in 2010 (53)
and the 10-year average of 82 cases per year.
The number of cases reported per
week during 2011 peaked at 21 in the second week of November, but decreased to 5
or fewer cases per week during December.
The majority of
reported pertussis infections occurred in Penobscot County (67%), but sporadic
infections occurred in other parts of the state. Clusters of pertussis occurred
in schools, camps, sport teams and workplaces.
Pertussis is caused by the bacteria Bordetella
pertussis and is a highly communicable, vaccine-preventable, respiratory
disease that can last for many weeks. Pertussis is transmitted through direct
contact with respiratory secretions of infected persons who cough or breathe on
someone else. Classic pertussis symptoms include paroxysmal cough, whoop, and
posttussive vomiting. Pertussis can cause
serious illness and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants.
Maine CDC has worked extensively with
schools and communities to implement control measures and prevent disease
transmission. These efforts include numerous health communications to inform
medical providers, school officials, child care providers, and the public about
pertussis and how to prevent infections. Maine CDC collaborated with school
officials in two schools that experienced pertussis outbreaks to rapidly
organize and stand up pertussis vaccination clinics. Maine CDC also requested
assistance from US CDC to better understand the school outbreaks,
determine the effectiveness of pertussis booster vaccinations in preventing
disease transmission, and the acceptability of providing pertussis vaccine in
school settings during an outbreak.
Medical providers should continue to be on the lookout for
pertussis. Providers should also check the
vaccination status of their patients and make sure they are up to date for age
on pertussis vaccines.
- General information on pertussis can be found on the Maine CDC website or the US CDC website.
- For information about pertussis vaccine or vaccine schedules please contact the Maine Immunization program at www.immunizeme.org or by calling 1-800-867-4755.
- Maine CDC epidemiologists are available to answer any questions about pertussis diagnosis or management through the 24/7 disease reporting line at 1-800-821-5821.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Pertussis
There have been about 150 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) reported in Maine so far in 2011, compared with 53 for all of 2010 and 80 in 2009. About 64% of 2011 cases have been in residents of Penobscot County. Clusters of pertussis have been reported in schools, camps, sport teams, and workplaces.
Pertussis is a highly communicable, vaccine-preventable respiratory disease that can last for many weeks. It is spread from person to person through the air. The first signs of pertussis are similar to a cold (sneezing, runny nose, low-grade fever, and a cough). After one or two weeks, the cough gets worse. For example:
- The cough occurs in sudden, uncontrollable bursts where one cough follows the next without a break for breath.
- Many children will make a high-pitched whooping sound when breathing in after a coughing episode. Whooping is less common in infants and adults.
- After a coughing spell, the person may throw up.
- The person may look blue in the face and have a hard time breathing.
- The cough is often worse at night.
- Between coughing spells, the person seems well, but the illness is exhausting over time.
- Over time, coughing spells become less frequent, but may continue for several weeks or months.
Pertussis can be very serious, especially in infants. The most common complication of pertussis is bacterial pneumonia. Rare complications include seizures, inflammation of the brain, and death.
Pertussis can be treated with antibiotics, but treatment may not cure the coughing right away.
The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination with DTaP for infants and children and with Tdap for pre-teens, teens, and adults. Clinicians should check the vaccine status of their patients to make sure they are up to date for their age. A summary of pertussis vaccine recommendations broken down by age and other life factors is available at http://go.usa.gov/ITj
For More Information:
- General information on pertussis can be found on the Maine CDC website http://maine.gov/dhhs/boh/ddc/epi/vaccine/pertussis.shtml or US CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/
- For information about pertussis vaccine or vaccine schedules, please contact the Maine Immunization program at www.immunizeme.org or by calling 1-800-867-4755
- Disease reporting or consultation is available by calling Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Increase in pertussis
Between Jan. 1 and July 22, 72 pertussis cases were reported to Maine CDC, compared to 20 cases reported for the same period in 2010. Clusters of pertussis cases have been reported in schools, camps, sport teams, and workplaces with the largest number of clusters identified in Penobscot county. Cases range in age from 1 month to 79 years. One infant has recently been hospitalized with life-threatening symptoms.
Pertussis is a highly communicable, vaccine-preventable disease that can last for many weeks. It is transmitted through direct contact with the respiratory secretions of infected people. Symptoms include cough, paroxysms, whoop, and post-tussive vomiting. Pertussis can cause serious illness in infants, children, and adults and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants. More than half of infants less than 1 year of age who get pertussis must be hospitalized.
For more information and clinical guidance, please see this Health Alert.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Pertussis Update
Since January 1, 2011, there have been 28 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) reported to Maine CDC. Cases have been reported in Cumberland, Hancock, Kennebec, Oxford, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset and Waldo counties. Cases range in age from 1 month to 57 years.
Coughing fits due to pertussis infection can last for up to 10 weeks or more; sometimes known as the “100-day cough.” Pertussis can cause serious illness in infants, children, and adults and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants. More than half of infants less than 1 year of age who get pertussis must be hospitalized.
The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination with DTaP for infants and children and with Tdap for pre-teens, teens and adults — protection from the childhood vaccine fades over time. Pertussis is generally treated with antibiotics, which are used to control the symptoms and to prevent infected people from spreading the disease.
The December 20, 2010, Health Alert on pertussis is available at: http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=173192&an=2
For more information about pertussis, visit: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/ddc/epi/vaccine/pertussis.shtml
Tdap Vaccination Strategies
Representatives from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, US CDC, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America co-authored a report titled Tdap Vaccination Strategies for Adolescents and Adults, Including Health Care Personnel, which is available at http://www.jointcommission.org/tdap/
The report is intended to help health care organizations of all types (hospitals, long term care facilities, ambulatory settings, home health organizations, etc.) improve Tdap vaccination rates.
The report notes that some important changes to the previously published ACIP recommendations were approved at the October 2010 ACIP meeting:
- For adults ages 65 years and older, a single dose of Tdap vaccine may be given in place of a tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td) vaccine in persons who have not received Tdap.
- Adults ages 65 years and older who have or anticipate having close contact with an infant age less than 12 months should receive a single dose of Tdap to protect against pertussis and reduce the likelihood of transmission of pertussis to infants age less than 12 months.
- Tdap can be administered regardless of the interval since the last tetanus- or diphtheria-containing vaccine.
- Children ages 7 through 10 years who are not fully immunized against pertussis and for whom no contraindication to pertussis vaccines exists should receive a single dose of Tdap to provide protection against pertussis. If additional doses of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid–containing vaccines are needed, then children ages 7 through 10 years should be vaccinated according to catch-up guidance.
PCR Diagnosing of Pertussis – Best Practices
US CDC has issued a Health Alert on the best practices for health care professionals related to the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for diagnosing pertussis in light of the continuing resurgence of pertussis and the likelihood that health care professionals will see more patients with suspected pertussis.
- For guidance in distinguishing signs and symptoms of pertussis from those of other conditions, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/features.html
- For more information on diagnostic testing, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/diagnosis-confirmation.html
- For information on specimen collection, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/specimen-collection.html
- For the entire guidance on PCR best practices in diagnosing pertussis, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/diagnosis-pcr-bestpractices.html
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Update on Vaccine Preventable Diseases
Recommended Immunization Schedules for Children
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has issued its annual Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6005a6.htm?s_cid=tw_mmwr90
National Vaccine Plan
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has unveiled a new National Vaccine Plan to enhance coordination of all aspects of federal vaccine and immunization activities. Its goal is to ensure that all Americans can access the preventive benefits of vaccines. http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2011pres/02/20110216b.html
Tdap Vaccination Strategies
Representatives from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America co-authored a report titled Tdap Vaccination Strategies for Adolescents and Adults, Including Health Care Personnel, which is available at http://www.jointcommission.org/tdap/
The report is intended to help health care organizations of all types (hospitals, long term care facilities, ambulatory settings, home health organizations, etc.) improve Tdap vaccination rates.
The report notes that some important changes to the previously published ACIP recommendations were approved at the October 2010 ACIP meeting:
- For adults ages 65 years and older, a single dose of Tdap vaccine may be given in place of a tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td) vaccine in persons who have not received Tdap.
- Adults ages 65 years and older who have or anticipate having close contact with an infant age less than 12 months should receive a single dose of Tdap to protect against pertussis and reduce the likelihood of transmission of pertussis to infants age less than 12 months.
- Tdap can be administered regardless of the interval since the last tetanus- or diphtheria-containing vaccine.
- Children ages 7 through 10 years who are not fully immunized against pertussis and for whom no contraindication to pertussis vaccines exists should receive a single dose of Tdap to provide protection against pertussis. If additional doses of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid–containing vaccines are needed, then children ages 7 through 10 years should be vaccinated according to catch-up guidance.
PCR Diagnosing of Pertussis – Best Practices
US CDC has issued a Health Alert on the best practices for health care professionals related to the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for diagnosing pertussis in light of the continuing resurgence of pertussis and the likelihood that health care professionals will see more patients with suspected pertussis.
- For guidance in distinguishing signs and symptoms of pertussis from those of other conditions, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/features.html
- For more information on diagnostic testing, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/diagnosis-confirmation.html
- For information on specimen collection, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/specimen-collection.html
- For the entire guidance on PCR best practices in diagnosing pertussis, see http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/clinical/diagnostic-testing/diagnosis-pcr-bestpractices.html
Influenza Update
Flu is widespread in Maine. In the week ending Feb. 12, there were seven new outbreaks – one in a long term care facility and six in K-12 schools. It is not too late to be vaccinated against the flu this season. To obtain flu vaccine, contact your health care provider, or look up clinics at www.flu.gov or www.211maine.org
Weekly updates on flu activity are available
- For Maine: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/influenza_surveillance_weekly_updates.shtml
- For the US: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/summary.htm
- For the world: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/activity.htm
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Increase in pertussis
Since November 1, 2010, there have been 14 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) reported to Maine CDC. Cases have been reported in Cumberland, Aroostook, Androscoggin, and Hancock counties with an identified cluster of cases in Penobscot county. Cases range in age from 7 years to 60 years. For the same time frame in 2009, 7 cases of pertussis were reported.
Coughing fits due to pertussis infection can last for up to 10 weeks or more; sometimes known as the “100 day cough.” Pertussis can cause serious illness in infants, children and adults and can even be life-threatening, especially in infants. More than half of infants less than 1 year of age who get pertussis must be hospitalized.
The most effective way to prevent pertussis is through vaccination with DTaP for infants and children and with Tdap for pre-teens, teens and adults — protection from the childhood vaccine fades over time. Pertussis is generally treated with antibiotics, which are used to control the symptoms and to prevent infected people from spreading the disease.
For more information, see this Health Alert.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Bi-weekly Public Health Update 9/9/10
INFLUENZA UPDATE
Maine CDC has already distributed more than 36,000 doses of flu vaccine. The vaccine distributed so far is earmarked for pre-schoolers as well as residents and employees of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. It is the first time in many years that state-supplied vaccine has been distributed this early.
Most influenza vaccine arrives in Maine through private sector channels, but some federal and state (Tobacco Settlement - Fund for a Healthy Maine) funds allow Maine CDC to purchase flu vaccine for some populations in Maine such as pregnant women, those in nursing homes, K-12 school children and their teachers and other staff, all other children, homeless, and people served by municipal and tribal health departments. Maine CDC will be distributing a total this year of about 290,000 doses of influenza vaccine, most of it over the coming weeks.
Maine CDC has posted materials – including registration forms, consent forms, and sample protocols – for those participating in school-based flu vaccine clinics at: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/maineflu/h1n1/educators.shtml#schoolclinics
Updates from the US CDC can be found on its Influenza Site.
PERTUSSIS
Pertussis is still an important concern in Maine and throughout the U.S., with outbreaks being seen in several states, including significant ones among un and under-vaccinated in California, resulting in 8 infant deaths there. To date in 2010, Maine has seen 32 confirmed cases of pertussis with 11 of those reported in the past month. The majority of people identified are younger than 13 years of age. Half are not up to date on their vaccines or their vaccine status is not known. With school reconvening and with so many children under-vaccinated, we are concerned about increasing outbreaks here in Maine. For more information, see this Health Alert: http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=DHHS-HAN&id=128206&v=alert
NATIONAL HEALTH REFORM
This report (http://www.rwjf.org/coverage/product.jsp?id=68128&cid=xtw_rwjf) examines the demographics and health characteristics of the new population nationally now eligible for Medicaid under health reform.
Although health coverage is currently available to children in families with incomes up to about $45,000 per year in nearly every state, an estimated five million uninsured children are eligible for Medicaid or CHIP but not enrolled. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have built an unprecedented coalition of partners, ranging from state governors to national advocacy organizations, to enroll children in Medicaid and CHIP and educate families. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/09/20100903a.html
As part of the health reform’s step-by-step efforts to close the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage gap, more than 1 million eligible Medicare beneficiaries who fall in this “donut hole” this year are mailed a one-time, tax-free $250 rebate check. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/08/20100830b.html
Through the Affordable Care Act’s Early Retiree Reinsurance Program, employers are going to receive help to maintain health coverage for retirees not yet eligible for Medicare. Nearly 2,000 employers, representing large and small businesses, State and local governments, educational institutions, non-profits, and unions have been accepted into the program and will begin to receive reimbursements for employee claims this fall. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/08/20100831a.html
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has unveiled CuidadodeSalud.gov, the first website in Spanish of its kind to help consumers take control of their health care by connecting them to new information and resources that will help them access quality, affordable health care coverage. This site is the partner of HealthCare.gov, which was launched in July 2010, and is the first website in Spanish to provide consumers with both public and private health coverage options tailored specifically for their needs in a single, easy-to-use tool. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/09/20100908a.html
For more information about Health Reform in Maine, visit the Governor’s Office of Health Policy and Finance’s web site: http://www.maine.gov/healthreform/
MAINE IS HIGHLIGHTED IN US CDC’S SPOTLIGHT ON TOBACCO USE
CDC Vital Signs is a new report that will appear on the first Tuesday of the month as part of the US CDC journal Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Vital Signs is designed to provide the latest data and information on key health indicators. This month’s Vital Signs focus on tobacco use:
• Vital Signs: Current Cigarette Smoking Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years — United States, 2009
• Vital Signs: Nonsmokers’ Exposure to Secondhand Smoke — United States, 1999–2008
Despite the known dangers of tobacco use, 1 in 5 American adults continues to smoke cigarettes, and 4 in 10 nonsmokers were exposed to cigarette smoke during 2007-2008. Among children between the ages of 3 and 11 years old, 54 percent were exposed to secondhand smoke. Nearly all (98%) of children who live with a smoker are exposed and have measureable levels of toxic chemicals from cigarette smoke.
In this report, US CDC commends California for their successful long term comprehensive tobacco control program that has been associated with adult smoking rate reductions. They then commend the successes seen in youth smoking in our state: “Maine, New York, and Washington have seen 45%--60% reductions in youth smoking with sustained comprehensive statewide programs.”
Additionally, the report notes that the 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act gives the Food and Drug Administration authority to regulate the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products and has provided new opportunities to reduce tobacco use.
For more information visit the Partnership for a Tobacco-free Maine, Maine CDC’s tobacco prevention and control program.
SPOTLIGHT ON TATTOOS
Tattoo licensing has been in the local news recently. Licensed tattoo artists in Maine are required to have special training about bloodborne diseases and to utilize safety precautions before, during and after the application of the tattoo. In getting a tattoo, safety should always be vigilantly observed to avoid medical issues. These include preventing diseases such as HIV, AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases that can be acquired through sharing of needles, use of unsterile equipments and sloppy procedures. You can reduce the health risks by only going to tattoo shops and tattoo artists that are fully licensed. The following provides information on the health risks associated with tattoos and the safety precautions that should be used by all licensed tattoo artists in the State of Maine.
Health Risks Associated with Tattoos:
• Bloodborne diseases. If the equipment used to create your tattoo is contaminated with infected blood, you can contract various bloodborne diseases, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus and HIV — the virus that causes AIDS.
• Skin infections. Tattoos can lead to local bacterial infections, characterized by redness, swelling, pain and a pus-like drainage.
• Allergic reactions. Tattoo dyes — especially red dye — can cause allergic skin reactions, resulting in an itchy rash at the tattoo site. This may occur even years after you get the tattoo.
• Other permanent skin problems. Sometimes bumps called granulomas form around tattoo ink, especially red ink. Tattooing can also lead to raised areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids).
Safety Precautions for Reducing Health Risk Associated with Tattoos:
• Go to a reputable tattooing studio that employs only licensed, properly trained employees.
• Make sure the tattoo artist washes his or her hands and wears a fresh pair of protective gloves for each procedure.
• Make sure the tattoo artist removes a needle and tubes from sealed packages before your procedure begins. Any pigments, trays and containers should be unused as well.
• Make sure the tattoo artist uses a heat sterilization machine (autoclave) to sterilize all nondisposable equipment after each customer. Instruments and supplies that can't be sterilized with an autoclave — including drawer handles, tables and sinks — should be cleaned with a commercial disinfectant or bleach solution after each use.
If you think your tattoo may be infected or you're concerned that your tattoo isn't healing properly, contact your doctor.
UPDATED RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE
The U.S. CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has updated its recommendations for prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease through use of the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine among all adults aged ≥65 years and those adults aged 19–64 years with underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk for serious pneumococcal infection. The new recommendations include the following changes from previous ACIP recommendations: 1) indications for which PPSV23 vaccination is recommended now include cigarette smoking and asthma, and 2) routine use of PPSV23 is no longer recommended for Alaska Natives or American Indians aged ≤65 years unless they have medical or other indications for PPSV23. For more information, read this MMWR: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5934a3.htm?s_cid=mm5934a3_w
Maine CDC has already distributed more than 36,000 doses of flu vaccine. The vaccine distributed so far is earmarked for pre-schoolers as well as residents and employees of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. It is the first time in many years that state-supplied vaccine has been distributed this early.
Most influenza vaccine arrives in Maine through private sector channels, but some federal and state (Tobacco Settlement - Fund for a Healthy Maine) funds allow Maine CDC to purchase flu vaccine for some populations in Maine such as pregnant women, those in nursing homes, K-12 school children and their teachers and other staff, all other children, homeless, and people served by municipal and tribal health departments. Maine CDC will be distributing a total this year of about 290,000 doses of influenza vaccine, most of it over the coming weeks.
Maine CDC has posted materials – including registration forms, consent forms, and sample protocols – for those participating in school-based flu vaccine clinics at: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/maineflu/h1n1/educators.shtml#schoolclinics
Updates from the US CDC can be found on its Influenza Site.
PERTUSSIS
Pertussis is still an important concern in Maine and throughout the U.S., with outbreaks being seen in several states, including significant ones among un and under-vaccinated in California, resulting in 8 infant deaths there. To date in 2010, Maine has seen 32 confirmed cases of pertussis with 11 of those reported in the past month. The majority of people identified are younger than 13 years of age. Half are not up to date on their vaccines or their vaccine status is not known. With school reconvening and with so many children under-vaccinated, we are concerned about increasing outbreaks here in Maine. For more information, see this Health Alert: http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=DHHS-HAN&id=128206&v=alert
NATIONAL HEALTH REFORM
This report (http://www.rwjf.org/coverage/product.jsp?id=68128&cid=xtw_rwjf) examines the demographics and health characteristics of the new population nationally now eligible for Medicaid under health reform.
Although health coverage is currently available to children in families with incomes up to about $45,000 per year in nearly every state, an estimated five million uninsured children are eligible for Medicaid or CHIP but not enrolled. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have built an unprecedented coalition of partners, ranging from state governors to national advocacy organizations, to enroll children in Medicaid and CHIP and educate families. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/09/20100903a.html
As part of the health reform’s step-by-step efforts to close the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage gap, more than 1 million eligible Medicare beneficiaries who fall in this “donut hole” this year are mailed a one-time, tax-free $250 rebate check. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/08/20100830b.html
Through the Affordable Care Act’s Early Retiree Reinsurance Program, employers are going to receive help to maintain health coverage for retirees not yet eligible for Medicare. Nearly 2,000 employers, representing large and small businesses, State and local governments, educational institutions, non-profits, and unions have been accepted into the program and will begin to receive reimbursements for employee claims this fall. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/08/20100831a.html
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has unveiled CuidadodeSalud.gov, the first website in Spanish of its kind to help consumers take control of their health care by connecting them to new information and resources that will help them access quality, affordable health care coverage. This site is the partner of HealthCare.gov, which was launched in July 2010, and is the first website in Spanish to provide consumers with both public and private health coverage options tailored specifically for their needs in a single, easy-to-use tool. For more information: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/09/20100908a.html
For more information about Health Reform in Maine, visit the Governor’s Office of Health Policy and Finance’s web site: http://www.maine.gov/healthreform/
MAINE IS HIGHLIGHTED IN US CDC’S SPOTLIGHT ON TOBACCO USE
CDC Vital Signs is a new report that will appear on the first Tuesday of the month as part of the US CDC journal Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Vital Signs is designed to provide the latest data and information on key health indicators. This month’s Vital Signs focus on tobacco use:
• Vital Signs: Current Cigarette Smoking Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years — United States, 2009
• Vital Signs: Nonsmokers’ Exposure to Secondhand Smoke — United States, 1999–2008
Despite the known dangers of tobacco use, 1 in 5 American adults continues to smoke cigarettes, and 4 in 10 nonsmokers were exposed to cigarette smoke during 2007-2008. Among children between the ages of 3 and 11 years old, 54 percent were exposed to secondhand smoke. Nearly all (98%) of children who live with a smoker are exposed and have measureable levels of toxic chemicals from cigarette smoke.
In this report, US CDC commends California for their successful long term comprehensive tobacco control program that has been associated with adult smoking rate reductions. They then commend the successes seen in youth smoking in our state: “Maine, New York, and Washington have seen 45%--60% reductions in youth smoking with sustained comprehensive statewide programs.”
Additionally, the report notes that the 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act gives the Food and Drug Administration authority to regulate the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products and has provided new opportunities to reduce tobacco use.
For more information visit the Partnership for a Tobacco-free Maine, Maine CDC’s tobacco prevention and control program.
SPOTLIGHT ON TATTOOS
Tattoo licensing has been in the local news recently. Licensed tattoo artists in Maine are required to have special training about bloodborne diseases and to utilize safety precautions before, during and after the application of the tattoo. In getting a tattoo, safety should always be vigilantly observed to avoid medical issues. These include preventing diseases such as HIV, AIDS, hepatitis and other diseases that can be acquired through sharing of needles, use of unsterile equipments and sloppy procedures. You can reduce the health risks by only going to tattoo shops and tattoo artists that are fully licensed. The following provides information on the health risks associated with tattoos and the safety precautions that should be used by all licensed tattoo artists in the State of Maine.
Health Risks Associated with Tattoos:
• Bloodborne diseases. If the equipment used to create your tattoo is contaminated with infected blood, you can contract various bloodborne diseases, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus and HIV — the virus that causes AIDS.
• Skin infections. Tattoos can lead to local bacterial infections, characterized by redness, swelling, pain and a pus-like drainage.
• Allergic reactions. Tattoo dyes — especially red dye — can cause allergic skin reactions, resulting in an itchy rash at the tattoo site. This may occur even years after you get the tattoo.
• Other permanent skin problems. Sometimes bumps called granulomas form around tattoo ink, especially red ink. Tattooing can also lead to raised areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids).
Safety Precautions for Reducing Health Risk Associated with Tattoos:
• Go to a reputable tattooing studio that employs only licensed, properly trained employees.
• Make sure the tattoo artist washes his or her hands and wears a fresh pair of protective gloves for each procedure.
• Make sure the tattoo artist removes a needle and tubes from sealed packages before your procedure begins. Any pigments, trays and containers should be unused as well.
• Make sure the tattoo artist uses a heat sterilization machine (autoclave) to sterilize all nondisposable equipment after each customer. Instruments and supplies that can't be sterilized with an autoclave — including drawer handles, tables and sinks — should be cleaned with a commercial disinfectant or bleach solution after each use.
If you think your tattoo may be infected or you're concerned that your tattoo isn't healing properly, contact your doctor.
UPDATED RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE
The U.S. CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has updated its recommendations for prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease through use of the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine among all adults aged ≥65 years and those adults aged 19–64 years with underlying medical conditions that put them at higher risk for serious pneumococcal infection. The new recommendations include the following changes from previous ACIP recommendations: 1) indications for which PPSV23 vaccination is recommended now include cigarette smoking and asthma, and 2) routine use of PPSV23 is no longer recommended for Alaska Natives or American Indians aged ≤65 years unless they have medical or other indications for PPSV23. For more information, read this MMWR: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5934a3.htm?s_cid=mm5934a3_w
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Get the school year off to a safe, healthy start
Remember that Pink Eye is usually mild and easy to treat.
Make sure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations, including pertussis.
Check out our fact sheet on head lice.
Keep school lunches safe.
Although the H1N1 flu pandemic is over, continue to remind children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve and wash hands frequently.
Make sure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations, including pertussis.
Check out our fact sheet on head lice.
Keep school lunches safe.
Although the H1N1 flu pandemic is over, continue to remind children to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve and wash hands frequently.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Pertussis Advisory for Parents and Clinicians
Pertussis is still an important concern in Maine and throughout the U.S. To date in 2010, Maine has seen 32 confirmed cases of pertussis with 11 of those reported in the past month. The majority of people identified are younger than 13 years of age. Half are not up to date on their vaccines or their vaccine status is not known. This advisory provides information on pertussis for the public and clinicians as well as a reminder about required vaccines for school attendance.
Pertussis Info for the Public:
The cyclical nature of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, historically causes it to peak every few years, especially when there are high rates of non or under immunization. This year appears to be one of those peak years, given the increase in new cases in many parts of the U.S. As of two weeks ago, almost 10,000 new cases of pertussis were reported nationally. This figure is close to surpassing the total number of cases reported in all of 2009. One in eight of the reported cases this year are from California, which has seen the highest number of cases in 52 years. Tragically, 8 young infants have died in California from pertussis. All were too young to be vaccinated except for one who had just received one dose. The vaccine protects not only those who are receiving it but also young infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated and are more vulnerable to the devastating effects of the disease.
Children need 5 doses of DTaP by kindergarten (ages 4 -6) and a TDaP booster by age 11. All teens and adults are recommended to receive TDaP boosters.
FMI for Consumers:
* Video stories of those affected by pertussis and being undervaccinated against various diseases: http://shotbyshot.org/story-gallery#Pertussis
* U.S. CDC’s info page on pertussis: http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/about/index.html
Pertussis Info for Clinicians:
1. Consider pertussis when evaluating any patient with an acute illness characterized by cough >2 weeks in duration, or cough with paroxysms, whoop, or post-tussive vomiting. Infants may present with apnea and/or cyanosis.
2. Report known or suspected cases promptly to the Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821.
3. Persons who exhibit symptoms consistent with pertussis should be tested with a nasopharyngeal swab. The Maine CDC’s Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) tests specimens by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in addition to other reference labs in the state. Serologic testing through private laboratories has not been well standardized and should not be used.
4. Individuals with suspected pertussis should be treated after a nasopharyngeal specimen is collected for testing. Guidelines for antibiotic treatment for pertussis cases and contacts have been published by the federal CDC in the MMWR (December 9, 2005. RR-14) and are available at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5414a1.htm.
5. Individuals with symptoms of pertussis should be considered to be infectious and should not attend school, work, or daycare until they have completed 5 days of an appropriate antibiotic. This is especially important for persons working in medical settings or with infants and young children.
Reminder about School Immunizations:
As the school year begins, it is important to remind patients and their families to check that they are up to date on their immunizations. This is also an excellent opportunity for patients to catch up on any immunizations they may have missed. Maine’s school immunization law requires the following vaccines for children entering school:
* Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DTaP)
* Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
* Poliomyelitis
* Varicella
The Maine Immunization Program supplies these required vaccines free to healthcare providers:
* DTaP: for any child under 7
* MMR/Polio/Varicella: for any child under 18
Additionally, federal CDC maintains a recommended immunization schedule, which includes schedules for children and adolescents up to age 18 as well as a recommended catch up schedule. This is listed here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/child-schedule.htm
Going back to school is a busy time of year for both families and health practitioners. By reminding and encouraging patients to stay up to date on their vaccines, we can create a healthy and safe learning environment for all Maine children.
For more information on pertussis control measures, please go to www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/pertussis/guide.htm or call 1-800-821-5821.
Pertussis Info for the Public:
The cyclical nature of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, historically causes it to peak every few years, especially when there are high rates of non or under immunization. This year appears to be one of those peak years, given the increase in new cases in many parts of the U.S. As of two weeks ago, almost 10,000 new cases of pertussis were reported nationally. This figure is close to surpassing the total number of cases reported in all of 2009. One in eight of the reported cases this year are from California, which has seen the highest number of cases in 52 years. Tragically, 8 young infants have died in California from pertussis. All were too young to be vaccinated except for one who had just received one dose. The vaccine protects not only those who are receiving it but also young infants who are too young to be fully vaccinated and are more vulnerable to the devastating effects of the disease.
Children need 5 doses of DTaP by kindergarten (ages 4 -6) and a TDaP booster by age 11. All teens and adults are recommended to receive TDaP boosters.
FMI for Consumers:
* Video stories of those affected by pertussis and being undervaccinated against various diseases: http://shotbyshot.org/story-gallery#Pertussis
* U.S. CDC’s info page on pertussis: http://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/about/index.html
Pertussis Info for Clinicians:
1. Consider pertussis when evaluating any patient with an acute illness characterized by cough >2 weeks in duration, or cough with paroxysms, whoop, or post-tussive vomiting. Infants may present with apnea and/or cyanosis.
2. Report known or suspected cases promptly to the Maine CDC at 1-800-821-5821.
3. Persons who exhibit symptoms consistent with pertussis should be tested with a nasopharyngeal swab. The Maine CDC’s Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) tests specimens by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in addition to other reference labs in the state. Serologic testing through private laboratories has not been well standardized and should not be used.
4. Individuals with suspected pertussis should be treated after a nasopharyngeal specimen is collected for testing. Guidelines for antibiotic treatment for pertussis cases and contacts have been published by the federal CDC in the MMWR (December 9, 2005. RR-14) and are available at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5414a1.htm.
5. Individuals with symptoms of pertussis should be considered to be infectious and should not attend school, work, or daycare until they have completed 5 days of an appropriate antibiotic. This is especially important for persons working in medical settings or with infants and young children.
Reminder about School Immunizations:
As the school year begins, it is important to remind patients and their families to check that they are up to date on their immunizations. This is also an excellent opportunity for patients to catch up on any immunizations they may have missed. Maine’s school immunization law requires the following vaccines for children entering school:
* Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DTaP)
* Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR)
* Poliomyelitis
* Varicella
The Maine Immunization Program supplies these required vaccines free to healthcare providers:
* DTaP: for any child under 7
* MMR/Polio/Varicella: for any child under 18
Additionally, federal CDC maintains a recommended immunization schedule, which includes schedules for children and adolescents up to age 18 as well as a recommended catch up schedule. This is listed here: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/child-schedule.htm
Going back to school is a busy time of year for both families and health practitioners. By reminding and encouraging patients to stay up to date on their vaccines, we can create a healthy and safe learning environment for all Maine children.
For more information on pertussis control measures, please go to www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/pertussis/guide.htm or call 1-800-821-5821.
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