40 dead as pertussis cases rise

40 dead as pertussis cases rise

THE Department of Health (DoH) said 28 new pertussis cases were reported from March 10-16, bringing the total to 568 since January.

Of the number, 40 deaths have been reported nationwide, the department said.

The new number of cases nationwide is 25.38 percent higher than the 453 from the previous 10 weeks. This number is also more than 20 times last year’s 26 cases.

The regions with the most number of case increases so far are Calabarzon (Calamba, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon), Metro Manila, Western Visayas, Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), and Central Visayas.

Quezon City and Pasig City in Metro Manila and Iloilo City in the central Philippines have declared a pertussis outbreak.

Of the total pertussis cases recorded, at least six out of 10 were infants below six months of age, while three out of four of these infants were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination history.

Of the cases, regardless of age, close to seven out of 10 were either unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination history.

“The medical field has known pertussis for a long time now. We have antibiotics that can treat it. Vaccines are safe and effective against whooping cough. DoH is also redistributing on-hand doses where they are needed the most. In consultation with President Marcos, I have already ordered to fast-track the arrival of 3 million more doses. Please be assured while also being alert. We can fight this,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.

Health experts say pertussis starts as a mild cough and cold that lasts about two weeks, followed by paroxysms or fits of coughing, which last up to six weeks.

There is a characteristic “whooping” or high-pitched sound between coughs, especially when inhaling. There can also be vomiting immediately after coughing and low-grade fever. Infants may not present with a cough; instead, they may turn cyanotic or bluish when coughing.

Compared to cough found in other diseases, the distinct “whoop” or high-pitched sound of pertussis is unique. Bronchial asthma may also have a similar sound, but only during asthma attacks and often without fever or other symptoms.

Pertussis is caused by bacteria — either Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella parapertussis.

Antibiotics are available and effective against them, and doctors will prescribe a course of treatment that should start as early as possible. Depending on the antibiotic used and the age and condition of the patient, treatment may run from four to 14 days.

Pertussis is a respiratory disease that can be transmitted from person to person through coughing or sneezing, and this transmission may be prevented by good respiratory hygiene: cover coughs and sneezing — do so into disposable tissues/wipes, or the elbow or upper arm (not hands). Wash hands often or use alcohol if soap and water are not readily available.

Pentavalent vaccines include protection against “DPT” (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus) and Hepatitis B and Hemophilus influenza type B.

Infants as young as six weeks may be given this vaccine for free at government health centers, while children from 1 to 6 years of age may get a booster dose.

Older children and adults should consult a doctor or health center for advice on the appropriate vaccine.