The Department of Health (DOH) has reported concerning trends in pertussis and measles-rubella (MR) cases.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, has seen a significant increase with 1,477 cases and 63 deaths recorded from January to April 6, 2024, marking a 41-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023. Children under five years old account for 76% of cases.
The DOH is actively responding with outbreak immunization efforts, awaiting vaccine supplies, and considering procurement improvements. Meanwhile, the MR cases have surged to 1,627 cases with 4 deaths during the same period, five times higher than last year.
Children under ten years old are at the highest risk, comprising 82% of cases, with nearly half originating from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). A mass immunization campaign is underway in BARMM, with significant progress in vaccination coverage.
The DOH emphasizes the need for efficient vaccine procurement methods like framework agreements to ensure timely and sufficient supplies.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa highlighted the importance of swift responses to outbreaks to save lives and the adoption of procurement strategies to enhance vaccine accessibility and distribution.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 18, 2024
