13 Mar 2024 | 03:11 PM UTC
Czech Republic: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in March /update 1
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in the Czech Republic in March. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in the Czech Republic, with an additional 1,575 cases reported Feb. 14-March 10, bringing the total count to 2,273 cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 20 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. South Bohemian (496 cases) is the most affected, followed by Central Bohemian (355 cases), Vysocina (329 cases), Pardubice (280 cases), Prague (237 cases), South Moravian (106 cases), and Liberec (104 cases). Health officials are urging the public to get vaccinated against the disease to prevent further disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 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 the Czech Republic is estimated at 94 percent, which is within the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported roughly 494 pertussis cases nationwide in the Czech Republic in 2023, 96 cases in 2022, 51 cases in 2021, and 696 cases in 2020.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 5-10 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.
