ILOILO – The provincial government is ready to support local government units (LGUs) facing outbreaks of pertussis, also known as whooping cough.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease known for causing violent coughing fits and is especially severe in young children and infants.
“We will elevate our measures, initially providing assistance with vaccines and medication. We are prepared to augment the capacity of our Rural Health Units as we have done with other health problems in the past,” said Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.
According to the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), from January 1 to March 23, 2024, there have been 30 confirmed and suspected cases of pertussis (nine laboratory-confirmed cases with three deaths, and 21 suspected cases with four deaths).
The confirmed cases were reported from the towns of Santa Barbara (two), Dumangas (one death), San Joaquin (one death), Balasan (one death), and one case each in Tubungan, Cabatuan, Banate, and Pavia.
The suspected cases were more widespread: Santa Barbara (four), Miag-ao (three with one death), Dumangas (one), San Joaquin (one), Ajuy (one), Lambunao (two), Badiangan (one), Concepcion (one), Anilao (one), Barotac Viejo (one), Passi City (one), and Sara (one).
Santa Barbara is currently under close watch by the IPHO for a potential municipal-wide outbreak declaration. The town has recorded six cases, both confirmed and suspected.
An emergency meeting is scheduled to discuss the possibility of declaring an outbreak.
Defensor emphasized ongoing monitoring of the Rural Health Units’ capacity to manage pertussis cases and the continuation of routine immunization programs, including vaccination against pertussis for children at six weeks, 10 weeks, and 14 weeks old.
IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon reported sufficient vaccine stock for routine immunization, thanks to the Department of Health providing an additional 14,000 doses of vaccines for outbreak response.
A catch-up immunization campaign is also underway for children under two years old who have not completed their routine vaccinations in areas with recorded pertussis cases.
In the event more vaccines are needed, Defensor said the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund would be used to purchase additional supplies.
He also said that while there is no current recommendation for mandatory facemask use, the public is encouraged to wear masks if they choose, for their protection./PN
