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TPDN 1989, Vol. 49, No. 27
have shown that blood-lead levels as low as
10 ug/dL may adversely affect childhood neu-
robehavioral function and development.
PDN Editorial Note: The use of pottery, both
domestic and imported, has long been popular in
Texas households. Health care providers are
urged to remain alert to the possibility of lead
poisoning from such sources and caution patients
and clients accordingly.
* * *
PERTUSSIS--TRAVIS COUNTY
The Austin-Travis County Health Department
has received reports'of ten confirmed cases of
pertussis (whooping cough) since early June 1989.
No commonality has been established for these
cases, except 'that five occurred within the same
zip code in South Austin and one case involved
household transmission. Seven of the ten cases
were in children less than 4 years of age.
During 1989, the Texas Department of Health
has received 55 reports of confirmed pertussis
from 18 counties throughout the state. The
majority of these cases (78%) were reported in
children 4 years of age and younger.
The summer months of June-August have tradi-
tionally been a time period for increased pertus-
sis morbidity in Texas. Pertussis is transmitted
via large aerosol droplets from the respiratory
Prepared by: Wes Hodgson, Administrator of Technical Programs
II, Immunization Division, TDH.
tracts of symptomatic individuals. Transmission
occurs most frequently in household settings,
where as many as 90% of non-immune household
contacts may acquire the infection. Incomplete
protection by the vaccine contributes to disease
acquisition, although children who receive at
least three doses show protection levels of
85-95%. Waning immunity in adults and older
children, who can transmit infection even when
having few symptoms, also contributes to trans-
mission. Therefore, prompt chemoprophylaxis
for household contacts is a primary concern sub-
sequent to index case diagnosis.
For further information regarding laboratory
confirmation, case management, etc, contact the
TDH Immunization Division at (512)458-7284 or
toll-free 1-800-252-9152.
TEXAS PREVENTABLE DISEASE NEWS (ISSN 8750-9474) is a free, weekly publication of the Texas Department of
Health, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756. Second-class postage paid at Austin, TX. POSTMASTER: Send
address changes to TEXAS PREVENTABLE DISEASE NEWS, 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756.
TEXAS PREVENTABLE DISEASE NEWS
Texas Department of Health
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, TX 78756
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