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11 Mar 2024 | 03:49 PM UTC

North Macedonia: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially Skopje, in March

Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in North Macedonia, especially Skopje, in March. Obtain vaccination.

Warning
health
MKD

Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in North Macedonia, with a total of 173 cases reported Jan. 1-March. 7. This is compared to no cases reported in 2022. Skopje (151 cases) is the most affected, followed by Tetovo (8 cases), Kumanovo (5 cases), Gostivar (2 cases), and Struga, Strumica, Debar, Kriva Palanka, Bitola, Kavadarci, and Kochani reporting one case each. Health officials are carrying out an intensive check of unregistered and unvaccinated persons with the aim of getting them vaccinated to prevent further disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 11.

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 North Macedonia is estimated at 84 percent, which is well below the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported no pertussis cases in North Macedonia in 2022 and 2021, and two 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.

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