24 Apr 2024 | 03:05 PM UTC
Bulgaria: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in April
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Bulgaria in April. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Bulgaria, with a total of 314 cases reported Jan. 1-April 23. This is compared to four cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Areas reporting elevated disease activity include Sofia, Stara Zagora, Kyustendil, Varna, and Burgas. In response to the surge in pertussis activity, local health officials have made adjustments to the immunization schedule, lowering the age for the first dose of the pertussis vaccine to just one and a half months of age. This report represents the most complete data available as of April 24.
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 Bulgaria is estimated at 91 percent in 2022, which is below the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 20 pertussis cases nationwide in Bulgaria in 2023, 17 cases in 2022, 3 cases in 2021, and 26 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.
