We evaluated the reactogenicity and immunogenicity of an acellular pertussis vaccine in 24 subjects affected by Down's syndrome and in 10 normal infants. Neither general nor local adverse reactions were observed in either group of subjects. The new acellular vaccine administration elicited protective levels of antibodies in all the subjects with Down's syndrome, although the geometric mean titres of IgG antibodies against Bordetella pertussis in these subjects were significantly lower than in normal controls.
Comment: the authors go on to say that "A fourth dose of acellular pertussis vaccine is probably needed in these subjects to improve their immune response and guarantee the same degree of protection as in normal subjects."
Vaccine schedules in children differ from country to country. Please consult your doctor for your child's recommended schedule.
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