04 Apr 2024 | 01:21 PM UTC
Philippines: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in early April
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in the Philippines in early April. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in the Philippines, with a total of 862 cases reported Jan. 1-March 23. This is compared to the 24 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Mimaropa (187 cases) is most affected, followed by the National Capital Region (158 cases), Central Luzon (132 cases), Central Visayas (121 cases), and Western Visayas (72 cases). Local health officials are distributing vaccines to affected areas, and are coordinating with local governments to improve immunization coverage among young children. This report represents the most complete data available as of April 4.
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 Philippines is estimated at 72 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported more than 700 pertussis cases nationwide in the Philippines in 2023, 42 cases in 2022, 27 cases in 2021, and 48 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.
