The 1996 pertussis epidemic in New Zealand: descriptive epidemiology.

Abstract

New Zealand continues to experience high rates of pertussis as a result of inadequate immunisation coverage. The increase in hospitalisations during the 1996 epidemic may reflect a real increase in the population-based incidence, or other changes (e.g. hospitalisation practice, increase in vulnerable children with poor access to primary care). Improved rates, accuracy and completeness of pertussis notifications will improve the ability of notification data to accurately describe future epidemics and estimate vaccine effectiveness. Further debate is required regarding the aims of pertussis immunisation; accelerating the timing of the first three doses and adding further doses of pertussis vaccine on the national immunisation schedule; and the role of acellular pertussis vaccines. In the meantime, the priority must be increasing on-time immunisation coverage.