The FDA has approved GlaxoSmithKline’s BOOSTRIXR [Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid, and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine, Adsorbed (Tdap)] for use in adults 65 years of age and older for active booster immunization against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). This approval makes BOOSTRIX the first Tdap vaccine approved for use in this age group.

BOOSTRIX is now approved for use as a single dose in individuals 10 years of age and older—the broadest age range for any Tdap vaccine.

The approval of BOOSTRIX for use in adults 65 years of age and older was based on two clinical trials in which more than 1,100 U.S. subjects received BOOSTRIX

"Although many people may have been vaccinated against whooping cough as children, immunity can wear off over time.  Adults, including those aged 65 and older, should speak with their healthcare providers to make sure their vaccinations are up to date and to discuss the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommendations for preventing tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis,” said Leonard Friedland, GSK’s vice president, clinical and medical affairs for North America. 

Whooping cough is one of the most commonly occurring vaccine-preventable diseases in the U.S.

In 2010, California declared a whooping cough epidemic. Michigan, Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania also reported increases in cases in 2010 compared to 2009.