26 Jul 2024 | 06:48 AM UTC
Mexico: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially Chihuahua State, in July
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Mexico in July. Chihuahua State is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Mexico, with 171 cases reported Jan.1-July 14. This is compared to 50 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Chihuahua State (54 cases) is the most affected, followed by Baja California (30 cases), Jalisco (21 cases), Chiapas (17 cases), and Sonora (11 cases) states. 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 July 26.
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 (DPT3) vaccination coverage in Mexico is estimated at 85 percent in 2023, below the WHO recommended target of at least 90 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Mexican health officials have reported roughly 874 pertussis cases in 2019, 873 cases in 2020, 687 cases in 2021, 1,021 cases in 2022, and 1,360 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.
