SANTA ROSA CITY, Laguna – This city has declared a state of calamity due to a pertussis or whooping cough outbreak.
The Department of Health-Center for Health Development-Calabarzon reported 276 cases in this city from January 1 to April 6 with 103 confirmed cases.
Laguna had the highest number of cases with 56 – 27 were confirmed and 15 were from this city, San Pedro City, four; Calamba City, six, and Los Baños, two.
This city declared the state of calamity following a declaration from the local health board.
A state of calamity enables the city government to provide immediate response and assistance to patients and prevent further spread of the disease.
The DOH-CHD-Calabarzon has provided additional pentavalent vaccines to the city government.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a respiratory disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. It is transmitted from person to person through coughing or sneezing.
The DOH urged the public to practice proper handwashing, wear face masks, and observe cough and sneeze etiquette.
Parents and guardians are advised to check their children's vaccination status and routine immunization schedule and avoid individuals exhibiting influenza-like symptoms.
“If symptoms are observed, visit the nearest health facility for proper management. Pertussis should not be taken lightly as it could lead to severe complications and even death, especially among infants, children, and pregnant women,” the DOH said.