The CNMI Immunization Schedule recommends the following DTaP doses:
1st Dose: Children who are at least 6 weeks old;
2nd Dose: Children 4 months old;
3rd Dose: Children 6 months old;
4th Dose: Children 15 to 18 months old;
5th Dose: Children 4 years old
If parents are not sure their children are vaccinated, they should contact their health provider or contact the Public Health Immunization Program at 236-8734/8745 to make sure their children’s record is up to date.
If your child is at least six weeks old and has not received their DTaP vaccine, contact your health care provider immediately to schedule an appointment or you can also walk-in to the Public Health Immunization Program located at the ground floor of the Commonwealth Health Center on Lower Navy Hill, Monday to Friday (except on Austerity Fridays and holidays) from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 noon to 4 p.m.
Pertussis or whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial disease of the respiratory tract. It is primarily spread by direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat of infected individuals. Initial symptoms, similar to the common cold, usually develop about a week after exposure to the bacteria. Severe episodes of coughing start about 10 to 12 days later.
