13 Feb 2024 | 09:29 AM UTC
Australia: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially Queensland, in February
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Australia, especially Queensland, in February. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Australia, with a total of 943 cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 13. This is compared to the 124 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Queensland (398 cases) is most affected, followed by New South Wales (385 cases), Victoria (111 cases), and South Australia (29 cases). Health officials are urging the public to get vaccinated against the disease, and recommend that children showing symptoms be kept at home to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 13.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against pertussis or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccination coverage in Australia is estimated at 94 percent, which is within the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported roughly 2,436 pertussis cases nationwide in Australia in 2023, 481 cases in 2022, 550 cases in 2021, and 3,457 cases in 2020.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 7-10 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild illness with low-grade fever and occasional coughing in the early stage, to vomiting, exhaustion, and severe fits of rapid coughing in the later stage. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
