title: Pertussis immunization: science and the public.
abstract: Problems with pertussis immunization are not unique to the developing world. Problems exist in at least six nations in the industrialized world, in five of which epidemic pertussis has either never been controlled or has recurred because of low rates of immunization against pertussis. The poor rates of immunization have resulted in several instances from decisions by health authorities and in others from public fear of vaccine reactions. In all instances poor understanding of science by the public and by decision makers has been a major contributing factor.
authors.affiliation: Department of Epidemiology of Biostatistics and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Mortimer
authors.forename: J D
authors.initials: JD
authors.lastname: Cherry
mesh_terms: D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010567:Pertussis Vaccine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011634:Public Health; D011639:Public Opinion; D014917:Whooping Cough / Q000517:prevention & control*
chemical_list: D010567:Pertussis Vaccine