12 Jun 2024 | 02:32 PM UTC
Italy: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in June 2024
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Italy in June. Naples is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity in Italy, with 108 cases reported from Jan. 1 to May 10. This is compared to the 12 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Naples is the most affected (49 cases), followed by Palermo (32 cases), Rome (17 cases), and Florence (10 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 June 12.
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 Italy is 95 percent in 2023, above the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 62 pertussis cases nationwide in Italy in 2022, 5 cases in 2021, and 198 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.
