[Incidence of whooping cough in the city of Barcelona between 1999 and 2011]

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the study was to describe the long-term incidence of whooping cough in a large city.

Methods: Descriptive study of the cases reported in the notifiable disease registry between 1999 and 2011 in Barcelona.

Results: An increase in incidence was observed, especially in children and in the year 2011. Children younger than one year still were most affected, with a specific rate of 426.87/100,000 in 2011.

Conclusion: A new approach in adolescent and adult vaccination is needed to provide more protection to younger children, as well as research to assess a possible shift in the bacteria itself.