The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a public advisory urging citizens to prioritize routine vaccinations as pertussis (whooping cough) and measles cases surge across the country.
Pertussis cases have seen a significant increase, with 453 cases reported in the first 10 weeks of 2024 compared to just 23 cases during the same period last year. Disruptions in routine immunization due to the pandemic are cited as the primary cause. Quezon City has declared an outbreak, prompted by 23 reported cases and four pertussis-related infant deaths.
Additionally, the DOH has noted a surge in measles and rubella cases, totaling 569, affecting all regions except Bicol and Central Visayas. Children under 5 years old and the unvaccinated are most vulnerable to these diseases, which can lead to severe complications, including mortality.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed the importance of vaccination, particularly the anti-measles shot, with a target of achieving at least 90% coverage among high-risk groups. Free vaccines, including DPT-HepB-HiB and MMR, are available at local health centers.
The public is urged to prioritize vaccination to ensure protection against these preventable diseases. Authorities are actively mobilizing resources to contain the spread and safeguard public health.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 22, 2024
