Siblings Most Common Source Of Pertussis Infection In Newborns, Study Suggests

By Dr Deepu

The New York Times (9/7) “Well” blog reported that a study published online in Pediatrics suggests that “siblings, not mothers, are now the most common source of pertussis infection in newborns.” Researchers determined the source of pertussis infection in 569 infants between 2006 and 2013, finding that fathers “were the source of 10 percent of the infections, mothers of 20.6 percent, and siblings of 35.5 percent.”

        The AP (9/7, Tanner) pointed out that in order to protect babies, “experts have recommended two strategies – vaccinating close contacts after birth, including parents and siblings, and vaccinating pregnant women, who can transfer some disease protection before birth.” The results of this study, however, indicate that “the first option may not be as effective as hoped, so boosting low vaccination rates among pregnant women should be a top priority, the study authors said.” Reuters (9/8, Seaman) and HealthDay (9/8, Norton) also cover the study.