The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has confirmed five cases of pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, with an additional seven cases pending confirmation, according to PHO’s Dr. Tomas Cezar Lopez.
The confirmation follows an earlier report by the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health (DOH).
Dr. Lopez clarified that the confirmed cases have been validated through laboratory examination.
“When we say confirmed, it means that the cases have undergone laboratory testing and have been verified by laboratory examination of the pathogen,” he stated.
The five individuals diagnosed with pertussis are reportedly in stable condition.
Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics.
It is typically not a significant concern due to early childhood vaccinations, including the DPT vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus.
“The sad reality of this disease is that it affects young children, which is why it is included in our routine immunization for children,” Dr. Lopez explained.
He also noted that the characteristic whooping sound following a coughing fit is indicative of the illness.
The DOH has acknowledged a slowdown in the administration of the pertussis vaccine to children during the pandemic.
Dr. Lopez urges parents to seek medical attention at the first sign of whooping cough, as treatment is readily available.
He suggested that weather changes might contribute to the persistence of pertussis cases.
“The pandemic protocols, which required staying at home, halted our vaccination activities as we ensured COVID-19 precautions,” he said.
This led to a hiatus in DPT vaccine dispensation, potentially leaving many infants unprotected.
In response, PHO has initiated special immunization activities to provide vaccines, particularly to those who missed routine vaccinations during the pandemic’s peak.
The DOH has ordered three million pertussis vaccines, which are expected to arrive shortly.
While Bohol has no recorded positive cases of pertussis, health officers across towns and in Tagbilaran City have been directed to monitor for any instances of the disease actively.
Dr. Lopez recommends that individuals, especially young children who have not received the pertussis vaccine, wear face masks.
He also advises those exhibiting cough symptoms to do the same as a precautionary measure.