NCR Sees Stagnation in Pertussis Cases, While Other Regions Grapple with Surge: DOH Reports

Pertussis Cases in NCR: A Temporary Plateau?

Health authorities noted that pertussis cases in Metro Manila have remained steady in recent weeks, following an earlier increase in infections. Experts credit this stagnation to enhanced surveillance, vaccination drives, and timely medical interventions.

"We are seeing a plateau in pertussis cases in NCR, which is a positive sign," said DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa. "However, we remain cautious because cases could still rise if prevention efforts slow down."

Despite this temporary relief, DOH officials emphasize that continued vigilance is crucial, as pertussis remains highly contagious and can cause severe complications, especially in infants and young children.

Surge in Other Regions Raises Concern

While NCR has seen a slowdown, several provinces and rural areas are grappling with a surge in cases. The Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Western Visayas regions have reported significant increases in pertussis infections over the past month.

Local health units in these areas cite multiple factors behind the uptick, including:

• Low vaccination coverage in certain communities.
• Delayed access to healthcare in remote areas.
• Increased transmission in schools and crowded public spaces.

According to DOH epidemiologists, the current outbreak mirrors global trends, as pertussis cases have been rising in several countries due to waning immunity and disruptions in routine immunization programs.

What is Pertussis? Understanding the Disease

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the respiratory system. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.

Symptoms of Pertussis Include:

• Persistent coughing fits, often with a "whooping" sound.
• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
• Vomiting after coughing episodes.
• Fever, fatigue, and nasal congestion in early stages.

While adults and older children may experience milder symptoms, the disease is particularly dangerous for infants, who are at risk of severe pneumonia, brain damage, and even death.

DOH Ramps Up Vaccination Campaigns

In response to the rising pertussis cases, the DOH is reinforcing its immunization efforts, particularly in affected provinces. The pentavalent vaccine (which protects against pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, and other diseases) is being prioritized for infants and young children.

"Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent pertussis," said DOH spokesperson Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire. "We urge parents to ensure their children complete their immunization schedules."

Health officials are also mobilizing barangay health workers to conduct house-to-house vaccinations, especially in remote areas with low coverage rates.

Preventing the Spread of Pertussis

Aside from vaccination, the DOH is advising the public to take precautionary measures to minimize the spread of pertussis:

• Practice good respiratory hygiene (cover mouth when coughing or sneezing).
• Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms.
• Seek medical attention if experiencing persistent cough.
• Wear masks in crowded areas to reduce transmission.

Schools and workplaces are also being encouraged to implement preventive protocols, including monitoring for symptoms and temporarily isolating infected individuals.

Outlook: Is the Worst Over?

Health experts caution that while NCR’s stagnation in cases is encouraging, the battle against pertussis is far from over. The rise in cases across other regions indicates that continued prevention and vaccination efforts are critical to preventing a nationwide epidemic.

"We cannot be complacent," said Dr. Herbosa. "Our goal is to ensure that pertussis cases decline across all regions, not just in Metro Manila."

For now, authorities are urging parents, schools, and communities to remain proactive in protecting children and vulnerable populations from this potentially deadly disease.