Bicol region logs 21 cases of pertussis

LEGAZPI CITY — The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) in Bicol on Thursday said  that it recorded 21 cases of pertussis or whooping cough in the region as of April 7 this year.

DOH-CHD Bicol said six of the cases are tagged as “laboratory confirmed” while 15 are “clinical” cases.

One of the “laboratory confirmed” patient in Masbate CIty, died.

Based on a report by the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) of DOH-CHD Bicol, six cases were recorded in Albay, nine in Camarines Sur, one in Masbate, and five in Sorsogon.

No confirmed cases were reported from the provinces of Camarines Norte and Catanduanes.

Health authorities define a “clinical” case as a person whose cough lasts up to two weeks with at least paroxysms, inspiratory “whooping”, and post-tussive vomiting symptoms.

Meanwhile, a “laboratory confirmed” case is defined to be a case of acute cough illness of any duration with a positive culture for Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella parapertussis, which causes cough, colds, and fever.

The DOH-CHD Bicol stated that the RESUs of every province, city, and municipality in the Bicol region continue to monitor the cases through contact tracing, laboratory testing, and proper health assistance to patients of pertussis.

The public is also encouraged to cooperate on health measures for pertussis prevention and control.

In Albay, the Albay Provincial Provincial Health Office (PHO) advised the public to vaccinate infants to avoid being infected by pertussis.

The DOH advises the public to get a booster dose, starting with children age 1 to 6 years old. Older children and adults may consult a doctor for appropriate vaccination.

The DOH-CHD Bicol also urges the public to practice hand washing and wearing of face masks especially when in open areas.

If there are signs or symptoms, the suspected patient should immediately seek medical assistance. (Kezia Shane Camacho, Inquirer intern)