County Offers Pertussis Vaccine At Northgate Markets

In an effort to combat the ongoing pertussis epidemic that has sickened hundreds of children and adults in the region, the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency will be offering the whooping cough booster shot, or Tdap, at local Northgate markets on weekends in January.

The booster shot will be offered Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the following locations:

• 2909 Coronado Ave., San Diego, 92154
• 1410 S. 43rd St., San Diego, 92113
• 1058 3rd Ave., Chula Vista, 91911
• 606 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 92025
• 1150 E. Vista Way, Vista, 92084
• 1346 S. Mission Rd., Fallbrook, 92028

“These vaccination clinics are a great opportunity for parents to make sure their children have the recommended pertussis booster shot; those 10 years of age or older and adults who have not yet received it and who have contact with infants,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County Public Health Officer.

Furthermore, beginning July 1, all students entering 7th through 12th grades in public and private schools must show proof that they have had a Tdap booster shot before they can start school. Schools have been informed there will be no grace period and that they should strictly enforce the requirement. The CDC recommends that children receive the Tdap booster shot at 10-11 years of age.

Parents can also get the vaccine from their primary care physician. Residents who do not have health care coverage may visit a HHSA Public Health Center.

Last year, there were 1,106 confirmed cases of pertussis in the region, including two infants who died from complications of the disease.  The previous record of 371 confirmed cases was reported in 2005. In 2009, there were 143 confirmed cases of pertussis.

For more information about whooping cough, please call the HHSA Immunization Branch at (866) 358-2966, or visit the web site at www.sdiz.org.

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