Since 2002, whole-cell pertussis vaccines are no longer used in the US.

But what many failed to realize is that the pertussis vaccine offers just short-lived protection.

Many researchers estimate the risk for brain damage after pertussis vaccine as 1 in 100,000.

Recommendations for pertussis vaccines among adults will be considered later.

The protection offered by the pertussis vaccine, which is usually given in five doses to children under 7, lasts only 5 to 10 years.

No pertussis vaccine has been approved for adolescents and adults in the United States.

The effectiveness of the old and new pertussis vaccines is comparable, researchers said.

Most infants receive a pertussis vaccine, but its effectiveness subsides after about 10 years.

However, you should discuss the risks of the pertussis vaccine with your doctor.

Sato's acellular pertussis vaccine was used in Japan since 1981.