07 Aug 2024 | 07:37 AM UTC
Sweden: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially Stockholm, in early August /update 1
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in Sweden in early August. Stockholm is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in Sweden, with an additional 292 cases between July 26-Aug. 6, bringing the total case count to 739 cases since Jan. 1. This is compared to 137 cases in 2023. Reports indicate disease activity in most of the country, with the highest numbers in Stockholm (262 cases), followed by Skane (116 cases) and Vastra Gotaland (118 cases). Local health officials urge pregnant women to get vaccinated against whooping cough, and those with children to vaccinate their children against whooping cough at the Children's Health Center, and to avoid children under 6 months coming into contact with people presenting symptoms (runny noses and cough). This report represents the most complete data available as of Aug. 7.
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 Sweden is estimated at 94 percent, within the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 137 pertussis cases nationwide in Sweden in 2023, 13 cases in 2022, 11 cases in 2021, 269 cases in 2020, and 782 cases in 2019.
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.
