[dhs12345]

Here is an interesting bit of info from the same article.

“Before childhood vaccination was introduced in the 1940s, pertussis was a major cause of infant death worldwide. Widespread vaccination of children succeeded in reducing illness and death.”

So apparently, the reason for vaccination is sound.

[Black Agnes]

See my followup.

Penicillin was a Godsend blessing.

Until it stopped working due to overuse.

[My hearts in London - Everett]

Did you know that breastfeeding confers immunity on infants? Also,

"Because pertussis outbreaks occur once every 3 to 5 years, it seems to coincide with the vaccine efficacy wearing off after 3 to 5 years. Even with a vaccination, the virus is still highly contagious. For anyone with a weak immune system or those people not in overall good health, it is suggested to get medical advice to avoid complications. For most adolescents and adults, however, a mild case of pertussis can still cause the annoyance of a constant cough and missing school or work but will result in life-time immunity...."

http://www.childhoodshots.com/Dangers-of-Pertussis-How-Dangerous-is-the-Whooping-Cough-s/201.htm