Epidemiological situation of pertussis and strategies to control it: Argentina, 2002-2011. / Epidemiological situation of pertussis and strategies to control it: Argentina, 2002-2011.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Pertussis is a challenge for public health. OBJECTIVES: To describe pertussis-related morbidity and mortality and immunization coverage for the 2002-2011 period, profile of cases for 2011, and control strategies implemented by the Ministry of Health (MoH) of Argentina. METHODS: Descriptive, epidemiological surveillance study. Morbidity data were obtained from the National Health Surveillance System, while mortality data were obtained from the MoHs Health Statistics and Information Department and official jurisdictional reports. Administrative immunization coverage was used based on the data provided by the MoHs jurisdictions. The Epi Info software, version 7.1.2, was used for analysis. RESULTS: The number of reported cases of pertussis increased between 2002 and 2011, reaching its peak in 2011 an incidence of 16 x 100 000 inhabitants, and 76 deaths. Most deaths occurred in infants younger than 1 year old. Immunization coverage achieved at a national level with the third dose and the dose administered at the time of starting primary education was >90