CDC Updates Recommendations for Tdap Vaccine in Older Adults
- Fri, 7/27/12 - 10:29am
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On June 29, 2012, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) issued updated recommendations for use of the tetanus toxoid, reduced diptheria toxoid, and aceullar pertussis (Tdap) vaccine booster in adolescents aged 11 through 18, in adults aged 19 to 64, and in adults aged 65 years and older. In October 2010, ACIP had recommended that unvaccinated adults aged 65 years and older be vaccinated with Tdap if in close contact with an infant, and that other adults in that age group may receive Tdap. In July 2011, the indication for Boostrix was expanded for adults aged 65 years and older. In February 2012, ACIP issued a statement that Tdap is recommended for all adults aged 65 years and older. The recent statement in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly by the ACIP confirmed that this recommendation, along with others, supersedes previous Tdap recommendations regarding the older adult age group.
The Pertussis Vaccines Work Group of the ACIP investigated the epidemiology of pertussis in older adults and conducted cost-effectiveness models. The group also looked at the vaccine's safety and immunogenicity data in this age group from multiple clinical trials and observational studies. The Group reported that pertussis is underdiagnosed and underreported substantially in all groups, so it is difficult to determine exactly the burden of the disease in older adults, but that is likely be much higher than the data indicates.
"Providers should not miss an opportunity to vaccinate persons aged 65 years and older with Tdap. Therefore, providers may administer the Tdap vaccine they have available. When feasible, Boostrix should be used for adults aged 65 years and older; however, ACIP concluded that either vaccine administered to a person 65 years or older is immunogenic and would provide protection. A dose of either vaccine may be considered valid," the CDC reported in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
For further detail, read the full article online at:http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6125a4.htm
