Control of diphtheria and pertussis: Field guide

While diphtheria has been largely controlled, its resurgence underscores the critical need for sustained vaccination efforts, robust surveillance, and effective outbreak response to control this preventable disease. Collaborative action among governments, health organizations, and communities is crucial to achieving long-term control and, ultimately, eliminating this disease. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, remains a significant public health concern despite the availability of effective vaccines. High vaccination coverage across all age groups, including adolescents and adults, is crucial to protect vulnerable populations, particularly infants. Booster doses play a pivotal role in sustaining immunity and preventing outbreaks. At the same time, robust surveillance systems are essential for early outbreak detection, enabling swift public health responses, including targeted vaccination campaigns, enhanced case management, and awareness-raising communication efforts to promote vaccination. This field guide outlines the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control of both diseases. It prioritizes the latest Pan American Health Organization Technical Advisory Group on Vaccine-Preventable Diseases and World Health Organization recommendations. Its intended audience is Ministry of Health program managers in the areas of immunization, epidemiological surveillance, and maternal and child health programs.