Pertussis Panic: Philippines Declares Outbreak, Eyes State of Calamity

WhatsAppWhatsAppFacebookFacebookTwitterTwitterPinterestPinterestRedditRedditGmailGmailShareShare

The Philippines is grappling with a pertussis (whooping cough) outbreak, prompting the declaration of a state of calamity in the province of Cavite. This highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection has raised concerns about public health and necessitated urgent measures.

The Rising Cases

As of March 25, 2024, Cavite has reported a total of 36 confirmed cases of pertussis, including six fatalities. The outbreak has affected various cities and municipalities within the province, highlighting the urgency of containment efforts.

Breakdown of Cases:

– City of Bacoor: 6 cases; 1 death

– City of Trece Martires: 6 cases

– City of General Trias: 5 cases; 2 deaths

– Municipality of General Mariano Alvarez: 4 cases

– City of Carmona: 3 cases; 1 death

– Municipality of Silang: 3 cases

– City of Dasmariñas: 2 cases

– Municipality of Kawit: 2 cases

– City of Imus: 2 cases; 1 death

– City of Cavite: 1 case

– City of Tagaytay: 1 case

– Municipality of General Emilio Aguinaldo: 1 case; 1 death

Keep Reading

National Impact

The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a total of 568 pertussis cases in the country from January 1 to March 16, 2024. This figure is more than 20 times higher than the recorded cases during the same period last year. Tragically, 40 deaths related to this bacterial infection have been reported so far.

Regional Distribution:

– National Capital Region (NCR): 27% (58 cases) of the total confirmed cases

– Other regions with significant case increases: Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Mimaropa, and Central Visayas

Vaccination Efforts

The DOH is urging parents or guardians to have infants as young as 6 weeks old receive the pentavalent vaccine for free at government health centers. This vaccine not only protects against pertussis but also covers Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type B.

The pertussis outbreak demands swift action. The declaration of a state of calamity underscores the severity of the situation and the need for coordinated efforts to prevent further spread. Public awareness and vaccination campaigns are crucial in curbing this highly contagious disease.

Tags: Pertussis
Desk Writer

Spends most of the time reading news all around the world. Strong knowledge and understanding of the current situation and happenings in the ASEAN region.

Recent Posts

Ahtisa Manalo is officially announced Miss Universe Philippines 2025

Since yesterday, May 2, 2023, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Ahtisa Manalo has demonstrated her brilliance by…

May 3, 2025

10 Unforgettable Filipino Movie Lines That Defined Philippine Cinema

“you’re nothing but a trying hard copycat” Character- Lavinia Arguelles Film- Bituing Walang Ningning (1985) Context- Lavinia confronts her rival…

May 3, 2025

WWE Cuts 2025: Full List of Released Stars

During the first months of 2025 WWE released several prominent wrestlers who were part of their talent roster. Professional wrestling…

May 3, 2025

Kubo Rin Clinches 800m Victory at Shizuoka International, Secures Spot on World Athletics Team

Seventeen year old sprint prodigy Rin Kubo continues to make athletic history in Japan. At the Shizuoka International Athletics Meet,…

May 3, 2025

Get to Know NextRise 2025: Asia’s Premier Startup Innovation Event in Seoul

NextRise 2025-the biggest startup and tech event in Asia-is ready to take place in Seoul on June 26-27 at COEX,…

May 2, 2025

SS501 is officially staging a comeback and a huge one!

On this reunion occasion marking 20 years after their debut, the anticipation of the fans seems to be reaching greater…

May 2, 2025