Whooping Cough (Pertussis): What Parents Need To Know About The Disease

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has officially declared a pertussis or whooping cough outbreak in Quezon City. This declaration came after the city recorded 23 cases of the highly contagious respiratory infection since the beginning of the year, marking a significant increase compared to previous years, during which no cases were recorded. Tragically, four infants have succumbed to the disease.

“As of March 20 this year, we already recorded 23 cases of pertussis. What is more heartbreaking is this acute infectious disease has claimed the lives of four babies,” Mayor Belmonte said.

The Department of Health (DOH) also reported that a total of 453 Filipinos were infected by pertussis within just the first 10 weeks of 2024. During the same period in 2023, only 23 pertussis cases were reported, and in 2022, there were only two cases during the first ten weeks.

DOH attributes the increase in cases to disruptions in routine vaccinations at primary care centers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is whooping cough or pertussis

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory tract. It is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium and is characterized by severe coughing fits followed by a “whooping” sound. Although pertussis can affect individuals of any age, it poses the greatest risk to children under five years old, especially those who are unvaccinated or have weakened immune systems.

The disease is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Initial symptoms mimic those of a common cold, including mild fever, runny nose, and cough, but can progress to severe coughing fits. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the vulnerability of infants and young children to pertussis and the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease.

Whooping cough symptoms to watch for

• Initial phase: Symptoms start with a mild fever, runny nose, and cough, which may seem like a common cold.
• Progression: After 1 to 2 weeks, the cough worsens, leading to prolonged coughing spells that can end with a “whooping” sound upon inhaling.
• Complications: In severe cases, pertussis can lead to pneumonia, weight loss, and sleep disturbances due to coughing fits.

Minimizing the risk of whooping cough

Health authorities urge the public to follow safety protocols used during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the following:

Vaccination: Ensure that all children receive the DTaP vaccine (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and acellular Pertussis) according to the national immunization schedule. Adolescents and adults should consider getting the Tdap booster shot to maintain immunity.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa also reminded the public to avail themselves of the pentavalent Diptheria, Pertussis and Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type B (DPT-HepB-HiB) and Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccines, which are available for free at local health centers.

Hygiene practices: Regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers can reduce the risk of spreading infections.

Respiratory etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

Avoid crowded places: Limiting exposure to crowded places, especially during outbreaks, can reduce the risk of contracting or spreading pertussis.

Seek medical attention early: If you or your child exhibits symptoms of pertussis, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can mitigate the severity of the disease and prevent its spread.

Read here to learn more about whooping cough or pertussis.