26 Apr 2024 | 10:47 AM UTC
Czech Republic: Elevated pertussis activity reported nationwide in April /update 3
Elevated pertussis activity reported nationwide in the Czech Republic in April. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in the Czech Republic, with an additional 5,029 cases reported April 1-21, bringing the total count to 10,326 cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to the 48 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. South Bohemian Region (1,323 cases) and Central Bohemian Region (1,323 cases) are the most affected, followed by Prague (931 cases), Vysocina (900 cases), Pardubice (815 cases), Usti nad Labem (703 cases), Moravian-Silesian (692 cases), Zlin Region (604 cases), and South Moravian regions (542 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 April 26.
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.
