Assessing new ways to improving pertussis vaccine rates in the State of Alaska: A descriptive analysis

Abstract

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis that affects the line part of the upper respiratory system and lungs. Pertussis reported cases in the United States and Alaska in particular have seen a significant increase in year 2012 whereas previous years showed lower reported cases throughout the country. The goal of this research is to assist the State of Alaska Department of Health and Social Sciences (DHSS) and the Alaska Native Tribal Health in reducing the rate and improving the health of children, adults and older adults and communities of Alaska by increasing vaccination rates. This project will presents a descriptive epidemiology of pertussis cases in the State of Alaska by examining secondary data analysis from the State Section of Epidemiology from 2008 to 2013. Furthermore, the project will also shed light on improving vaccination rates. Results from the analysis concluded that although vaccination remains the best way to prevent pertussis, surveillance and new recommendations for pregnant women and infant vaccination is also of paramount. Based on study findings, it is recommended that DHHS and Tribal Health continue playing a catalyst role in increasing immunization rates in the State of Alaska and proper data recording through the current VacTrAk system which is the Alaska Immunization Information System (IIS). Both DHHS and Tribal Health should also continuing educating population about health benefits of vaccination and focusing on breaking myths and barriers to immunization.