Pertussis Outbreak and Optional DPT Vaccination (Updated July 15)
Pertussis (whooping cough), a contagious disease characterized by severe coughing, continues to spread—especially among children.
During the week ending April 6, 722 cases were reported nationwide, marking a record high for the second consecutive week. At our clinic, 65 patients have tested positive by PCR since April (as of July 15) and have received treatment.
We offer optional booster vaccinations using the DPT vaccine (Triphibic®) for children in Grade 1 and older, including adults.Online Booking HereIf you wish to receive this vaccine, please book through our online calendar and select “Optional Vaccination.” In the remarks column, write “DPT.”
📌 Please note: As of May 12, vaccine demand has surged nationwide. Delivery times are currently uncertain. We will contact you once the vaccine becomes available. Thank you for your patience.
Pertussis can be life-threatening for infants under 6 months of age. Families with young babies—or those expecting a child—should take extra precautions to avoid infection and prevent transmission. This includes vaccination and other preventive measures.
The Japan Pediatric Society recommends timely routine vaccination starting at 2 months of age to prevent severe illness.
Additionally, optional booster doses are advised for children before entering elementary school and again at ages 11–12, when immunity may have waned.For more information, refer to the Japan Pediatric Society’s March 29, 2025 report on pertussis and macrolide-resistant strains.
💉 Optional Vaccination Before Entering Elementary School: DPT and Polio (Repost)
Instead of the routine DT vaccine (Diphtheria, Tetanus) given at ages 11–12, families may choose the DPT vaccine (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus) as an optional booster.
In some municipalities, public funding may be available to substitute DT with DPT.
Recommended Groups for DPT Booster Vaccination:
①Pregnant women in late pregnancy
To pass protective antibodies to the baby and reduce the risk of severe illness.
②Family members and caregivers of infants Since most infant infections originate from close contacts.
③Healthcare workers
Especially those in maternity wards, NICUs, or caring for newborns and pregnant women.
⚠️ Please note: The DTaP vaccine (designed to reduce side effects) is not approved in Japan. Our clinic administers the approved DPT vaccine (Triphibic®), which may cause mild redness or pain at the injection site.
2025年04月19日
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