South Dakota Adolescent Pertussis Initiative

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a serious illness that is increasing in the United States. The 5-dose series of DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccine given in childhood to prevent pertussis is required for school entry in South Dakota. While it is not required, a booster shot is recommended at 11-12 years because the protection fades over time.

The Department of Health's Immunization Program provides free DTaP vaccine for children and provides the adolescent booster dose (Tdap vaccine) as well. All South Dakota middle school students are eligible for the free vaccine. While the vaccine is free, some providers may charge an administration fee.

South Dakota has some of the highest childhood pertussis vaccination rates in the nation. However, just 19.3% of the state’s 13-17 year olds have had the recommended booster dose, the lowest rate in the nation.

• Audio clips of characteristic "whooping" cough of pertussis (Utah Department of Health)

Vaccination

• Contact your usual childhood vaccine provider or one of department’s community health services offices at the county level — see doh.sd.gov/LocalOffices/Vaccine.aspx for a listing of all vaccine providers.
• Some schools are also working with the department to offer Tdap vaccine. Check with your child’s school to see whether a clinic is planned. Schools are encouraged to send clinic information to DOH.INFO@state.sd.us so it can be posted at this site.
• Vaccine Information Statement (use ADOBE)
• Vaccine consent form (use ADOBE)

More Information

• Frequently asked questions about Tdap vaccination

• South Dakota Department of Health pertussis fact sheet

• American Academy of Pediatrics pertussis information for parents

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Pertussis - What You Need to Know
  • Pertussis vaccination