19 Jun 2024 | 08:33 PM UTC
Brazil: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Sao Paulo in June
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in June. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity in Sao Paulo, with 139 cases reported Jan. 1-June 8. This is compared to 16 cases reported during a similar period in 2023, representing a 768.7 percent increase in disease activity. Local health officials urge the public to vaccinate their children against pertussis to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of June 19.
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) vaccine coverage in Brazil is estimated to be 76.3 percent in 2022, below the WHO-recommended standard of 90-95 percent. Health officials reported 39 pertussis cases in Sao Paulo in 2020, 20 cases in 2021, 17 cases in 2022, and 52 cases in 2023.
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.
