KEYWORDS:
Pertussis, Surveillance, Partnership, Communication, Media

BACKGROUND:
The incidence of pertussis in Texas has increased dramatically since 1999. Diagnosing pertussis can be difficult, and physicians may be reluctant to treat without laboratory confirmation. Disagreements over clinical and case definitions for pertussis may hamper efforts to standardize surveillance procedures.

OBJECTIVE:
To educate and alert medical and public health professionals, and the general public about the dangers of pertussis. To emphasize the importance of reporting suspected pertussis cases and implementing control measures. To publicize key prevention messages.

METHOD:
The Texas Department of Health partnered with professional organizations to alert health care professionals about the dangers of pertussis. Statewide alerts, press releases, a cover story in Texas Medicine, and professional workshops were all designed to increase awareness. Pertussis Outbreak Kits containing example letters, press releases, and a laboratory test guide were distributed to public health officials. Public education efforts included a statewide radio campaign in Spanish, the development of a Pertussis Fact Sheet, and the production of a pertussis poster and brochure. The www.ImmunizeTexas.com web page was created to provide easy access to statistics and educational materials.

RESULT:
Standardized letters are now sent to physicians, school officials, and parents during outbreaks. Web site hits and calls to the division’s toll-free 800 number have increased. The quality of laboratory specimens submitted to the TDH laboratory has improved; resulting in a higher percentage of laboratory confirmed cases.

CONCLUSION:
Health departments should prepare standardized communication tools and procedures in advance to prepare for large community outbreaks. Professional associations and local health departments are key partners in the development of strategies to combat pertussis.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To demonstrate effective strategies for alerting medical and public health professionals and the public about pertussis.