FDA Approves GSK's Vaccine for Adolescents Against Pertussis

The FDA has approved GlaxoSmithKline's booster vaccine, Boostrix.

Boostrix [Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine, Adsorbed (Tdap)] is indicated to be given as a single dose to individuals aged 10 to 18 years thereby adding a pertussis component to the routine tetanus/diphtheria booster currently administered to teens.

Previously, there was no pertussis vaccine approved for use in the U.S. in children 7 years of age or older. Immunity from childhood vaccination generally begins to wear off after five to 10 years, leaving many adolescents susceptible to this highly contagious disease.