May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Coughs No Spleen and now exposed to Pertussis
No Spleen and now exposed to Pertussis |
|
Dear Ask The Doctor: I had to have my spleen removed several years ago do to an accident. Last night I was at the home of friends that I unknowingly had just had whooping cough. They were still hacking mildly. I was vaccinated as a child but am wondering if I should go get a booster now or is it too late. Or, should I get on some antibiotics as a preventative? Thanks for any help you can offer. Dear Marsha: Immunity following pertusis vaccination is not lifelong. Susceptibility increases 5 to10 years after the last dose of pertussis containing vaccine. If you have been with your friends (who had whooping cough) for several hours, it would be safe for you, to see your doctor for some antibiotics for prevention of this infection. You may also want to schedule for a Tdap vaccine, if you have not had it already. Immunity following pertusis vaccination is not lifelong. Susceptibility increases 5 to10 years after the last dose of pertussis containing vaccine. If you have been with your friends (who had whooping cough) for several hours, it would be safe for you, to see your doctor for some antibiotics for prevention of this infection. You may also want to schedule for a Tdap vaccine, if you have not had it already.
|
|
| Last Updated ( Tuesday, 19 April 2011 ) |
|
|
|
|
