NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Pertussis Is Treatable - DOH
Photo credit: DOH
The Department of Health (DOH) remains vigilant in addressing the resurgence of Pertussis (Filipino: Ubong Dalahit, or Tusperina) across the nation.
Data reveals 28 new cases reported from March 10 to 16, bringing the total to 568 from January 1 to March 16, 2024.
Tragically, 40 Pertussis-related fatalities have been recorded.
Comparatively, this year's figures have surpassed last year's by over 20 times during the same period.
Regions witnessing a surge in cases include CALABARZON, Metro Manila, Western Visayas, MIMAROPA, and Central Visayas. Metro Manila alone accounts for 27% of the total confirmed cases nationwide.
Alarming statistics indicate that 62.7% of the total Pertussis cases involve infants below 6 months, with 75.8% of them either unvaccinated or with an unknown vaccination status. Overall, 67.6% of all cases fall into these categories.
While there's been a slight decline in new cases, caution is urged in interpreting this trend due to potential delays in consultations and reporting.
Recognizable symptoms of Pertussis include a distinctive "whooping" sound during coughing fits, often accompanied by vomiting and fever. Infants may not exhibit coughing but may turn cyanotic during episodes.
Prompt medical attention is crucial, as Pertussis is caused by bacteria and can be treated with antibiotics.
However, antibiotics should only be used as prescribed, and treatment duration may vary depending on factors such as age and health condition.
Preventive measures include good respiratory hygiene and vaccination. Vaccines, such as the pentavalent vaccine, are safe and effective in protecting against Pertussis. Efforts are underway to bolster vaccine availability nationwide.
DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in combatting Pertussis, reassuring the public of ongoing efforts to address the situation swiftly and effectively.
Data reveals 28 new cases reported from March 10 to 16, bringing the total to 568 from January 1 to March 16, 2024.
Tragically, 40 Pertussis-related fatalities have been recorded.
Comparatively, this year's figures have surpassed last year's by over 20 times during the same period.
Regions witnessing a surge in cases include CALABARZON, Metro Manila, Western Visayas, MIMAROPA, and Central Visayas. Metro Manila alone accounts for 27% of the total confirmed cases nationwide.
Alarming statistics indicate that 62.7% of the total Pertussis cases involve infants below 6 months, with 75.8% of them either unvaccinated or with an unknown vaccination status. Overall, 67.6% of all cases fall into these categories.
While there's been a slight decline in new cases, caution is urged in interpreting this trend due to potential delays in consultations and reporting.
Recognizable symptoms of Pertussis include a distinctive "whooping" sound during coughing fits, often accompanied by vomiting and fever. Infants may not exhibit coughing but may turn cyanotic during episodes.
Prompt medical attention is crucial, as Pertussis is caused by bacteria and can be treated with antibiotics.
However, antibiotics should only be used as prescribed, and treatment duration may vary depending on factors such as age and health condition.
Preventive measures include good respiratory hygiene and vaccination. Vaccines, such as the pentavalent vaccine, are safe and effective in protecting against Pertussis. Efforts are underway to bolster vaccine availability nationwide.
DOH Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa emphasizes the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in combatting Pertussis, reassuring the public of ongoing efforts to address the situation swiftly and effectively.
Mar 28, 2024
