10 May 2024 | 12:05 PM UTC
Norway: Elevated pertussis activity reported nationwide, especially Akershus, in early May
Elevated pertussis activity reported nationwide in Norway in early May. Akershus is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity nationwide in Norway, with a total of 1,463 cases reported Jan. 1-May 9. This is compared to the 150 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Akershus (359 cases) is most affected, followed by Oslo (270 cases), Trondelag (176 cases), Vestland (113 cases), Innlandet (105 cases), Rogaland (87 cases), Agder (72 cases), and Vestfold (70 cases). Local health officials urge the public to get their children vaccinated against pertussis and recommend that adults get a refresher dose every 10 years to protect themselves against the disease. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 10.
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 Norway is estimated at 97 percent in 2022, which is above the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 1,201 pertussis cases nationwide in Norway in 2023, 44 cases in 2022, 39 cases in 2021, and 812 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.
