Date: Friday 1st August 2025 The Vanuatu Ministry of Health is actively responding to a rise in suspected Pertussis (Whooping Cough) cases on Tanna Island, Tafea Province. According to Situation Update 1, eight suspected cases were reported between 6th and 30th July 2025, with most involving children aged between 1 month and 4 years. Laboratory confirmation of these cases is currently underway.
The Ministry advises the public that children especially those who are unimmunized and infants under 1 year are at highest risk of severe illness. Parents and caregivers are strongly encouraged to ensure their children receive all scheduled vaccinations promptly from their nearest health facilities.
Response Measures:
- Community Outreach: Health teams have visited affected communities to raise awareness and identify additional cases.
- Immunization Catch-up: Children under 5 years who missed routine immunizations are being vaccinated in hotspot areas.
- Health Promotion: Officers are actively sharing information to educate the public.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Key health centers are intensifying efforts to detect and report new cases.
- Event Monitoring: Emergency Medical Teams are monitoring public gatherings such as PSC Day and the National Arts Festival for signs of Pertussis.
- Medical Care: Suspected infant cases are receiving treatment under close supervision in the pediatric ward.
The Ministry of Health urges the public to take proactive steps and adopt preventive measures to safeguard themselves and their communities from respiratory illnesses, especially during the colder season.
Understanding Pertussis
What is Pertussis?
Pertussis, commonly known as Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. This illness is known for its severe coughing fits which can be followed by a "whooping" sound when the person breathes in. Pertussis can affect individuals of all ages but is particularly dangerous for infants and young children.
Mode of Transmission
Whooping Cough spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the bacteria are released into the air and can be inhaled by those nearby. Close contact with an infected individual significantly increases the risk of transmission.
Symptoms
- Mild fever
- Runny nose
- Cough, which in typical cases gradually develops into a hacking cough followed by whooping and lasts for two or more weeks. Infants may not cough at all.
Complications could lead to pneumonia, seizures, and brain disease (rarely). Some people, especially infants, may need to be hospitalized.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone unvaccinated is at risk of contracting the disease. The disease is most dangerous for infants and young children, potentially causing complications or death. Unvaccinated pregnant women may pass the disease to their babies.
Treatment
Antibiotics are used to treat the infection. Consult your doctor before taking them. Suspected cases should avoid contact with infants, young children, and women in late pregnancy, especially the unimmunized, until at least 5 days of antibiotics are taken.
Preventive Measures Including Vaccination
The most effective way to prevent Pertussis is through vaccination. The PENTAVALENT vaccine (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) is recommended for infants and children.
- Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water.
- Respiratory Etiquette: Covering mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding Close Contact: Staying away from individuals known to be infected.
- Early Treatment: Seeking medical care if symptoms develop to reduce transmission risk.
Contact Information
Marama Jacob Naus
Communications Officer
Health Promotion Unit
Department of Public Health
Email:
Mobile: 7556084
Tel: 22512