29 Apr 2024 | 03:05 PM UTC
Vietnam: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in April
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Vietnam in April. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Vietnam, with a total of 127 cases reported Jan. 1-April 27. This is 7.9 times higher than the cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Areas reporting elevated disease activity include Hanoi (60 cases), Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, Yen Bai, Nam Dinh, Phu Tho and Vinh Phuc provinces. Local health authorities request that provinces and cities strengthen disease prevention and control measures, strengthen communication on disease prevention, and mobilize families to get their children fully vaccinated. This report represents the most complete data available as of April 29.
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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam in 2022, 44 cases in 2021, 158 cases in 2020, and 1,013 cases in 2019.
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.
