24 Jul 2024 | 01:46 PM UTC
Hungary: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in July
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Hungary in July. Confirm vaccination; use basic health precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Hungary, with a total of 153 cases reported Jan. 1-July 14. This is compared to the two cases reported for all of 2023. Cases have been reported in 18 counties and Budapest, with only Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg unaffected. The most recent reports of pertussis cases in the country were received from Budapest and seven counties: Bacs-Kiskun, Bekes, Fejer, Hajdu-Bihar, Pest, Vas, and Zala. Local health officials recommend the booster vaccine for pregnant women to protect their newborns. Vaccination is also recommended for family members living in the same household as the baby and those involved in the baby's care. This report represents the most complete data available as of July 24.
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 Hungary is estimated at 99 percent in 2023, above the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported two pertussis cases nationwide in Hungary in 2023 and 2022, respectively. No cases were reported in 2021, and 13 were reported 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 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 later. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
