Absence of antibodies against Bordetella pertussis in pregnant women and newborns in the state of Nuevo Leon.

Aims: To assess placental transfer of antibodies to the child at birth and at 2 months of age.

Materials And Methods: For the quantification of anti-PT IgG antibodies, we used an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay standardized by The National Institute of Epidemiologic Diagnosis and Reference (InDRE). Samples were considered negative from 0 to 48 IU/mL, indeterminate from 49 to 93 IU/mL and positive at ≥94 IU/mL. We performed a cross-sectional assessment of anti-PT IgG antibody levels in the mother, umbilical cord, and child.

Results: There was a higher concentration of IgG anti-TP in the umbilical cord (4.3%) and in the mother (1.4%), but a total absence was observed in the child (0%).

Conclusion: The vulnerability of children to Bordetella pertussis shows the need to implement effective immunization strategies, whether actively, in the child, or passively through the mother, adolescents, and adults who are in contact with the child.