ObjectiveTo ascertain antibodies level against Bordetella pertussis whole-cell in healthy primary and secondary school students and adults in Hongkou District, and to provide evidence for the prevention and control of pertussis.

MethodsThe antibody levels against pertussis whole-cell in primary and secondary school students and adults(including pregnant women) in Hongkou District were determined by quantitative ELISA. Those with immunization history of pertussis vaccine and continuous cough history for more than two weeks in primary and secondary school students were investigated. Pertussis antibody GMTs, positive rate of antibody and high antibody levels were statistically analyzed.

ResultsThe antibody GMTs of pertussis whole-cell were 29.85U/mL in general. The positive rates of pertussis antibody(IgG≥50 U/mL)were 37.15%. The positive rates of high pertussis antibody level (IgG≥100 U/mL)were 17.65%.The antibody GMTs, positive rate of antibody and high antibody level were with highly significant difference in different age groups. They showed a trend of significant increase significantly along with the age growth. The antibody level of community people was significantly higher than that of pregnant women and students. The antibody GMTs, positive rate of antibody and high antibody levels in adolescents with a continuous cough history for more than two weeks during the last year were significantly higher than those without a continuous cough history for more than two weeks.

ConclusionPertussis infection might have missed diagnosis without being found in primary and secondary school students and adults in Hongkou District. The pertussis vaccination program does not have adequate lasting protection for primary and secondary school students. To provide a basis for immune strategy of pertussis in primary and secondary school students and adults, it is important to carry out active prospective monitoring on pertussis cases of primary and secondary school students and adults in hospital/community.