The Vanuatu Ministry of Health continues its response to the suspected outbreak of Pertussis (Whooping Cough) in Tanna, Tafea Province. According to the Situation Report dated 5th August 2025, a total of 11 suspected cases have been recorded at Lenakel Hospital since 6th July. Of these, 2 children have died, 5 have been discharged, and 4 remain under treatment. All hospitalized children had not received their scheduled Pentavalent vaccinations.
The Pentavalent vaccine is administered in three doses: Penta 1 at 6 weeks, Penta 2 at 10 weeks, and Penta 3 at 14 weeks of age. It protects against five serious diseases: Pertussis, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type B.
Ensuring infants receive the full recommended schedule is critical to building immunity and preventing life-threatening illnesses such as Pertussis.
Vaccination and Outreach Efforts Intensify
To contain the spread and protect vulnerable populations, the Ministry has launched a comprehensive vaccination and awareness campaign:
- Routine station immunizations are being administered at Lamenu Stadium, Lenakel, Tanna, for children who missed scheduled doses.
- Mobile Health Teams have been deployed to hotspot communities including Imaia, Ianapik, Green Point, and Ianruan for community awareness and vaccination catch up.
- Over 250 vaccine doses have been administered between 28 July and 4 August, including Penta, OPV, PCV, and MMR.
- Community Engagement Teams will be conducting door-to-door awareness and immunization drives in the following weeks.
Hospital Preparedness and Treatment
Efforts are implemented with the support from national referral hospital to strengthen health workforce and service capacity in Tanna. Public Health Messaging and Events Health promotion activities are aligned with national events:
- PSC Day and the National Arts Festival feature vaccination stations and information booths.
- Mass media campaigns via radio, posters, and community forums are reinforcing hygiene practices and early health-seeking behavior.
Call to Action
The Ministry urges all families, especially those with children under 5, to:
- If in Tanna, visit Lamenu Stadium or the nearest health facility for vaccination. At event sites for the National Arts festival, visit the mobile teams with your children for a vaccination catch up and receive up to date information.
- Practice good hygiene and cover mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, or breathing difficulties appear.
- Parents in other parts of Vanuatu should ensure that all children under 5 years of age who are unvaccinated or have incomplete vaccinations are taken to the nearest health facility as soon as possible.
- Travelers returning from Tanna are advised to monitor their health and visit a health facility immediately if they or their children feel unwell. Encourage and refer anyone in your community showing signs of illness to seek medical care. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with antibiotics can reduce severity and prevent further transmission.
Understanding Pertussis
What is Pertussis?
Pertussis, or Whooping Cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is known for severe coughing fits followed by a “whooping” sound when breathing in. It is especially dangerous for infants and young children.
Mode of Transmission
Pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact increases the risk of transmission. Symptoms Symptoms typically appear 7 to 10 days, but can present as late as 21 days after infection and may include:
- Mild fever
- Runny nose
- Persistent cough that may develop into severe coughing fits with a “whoop” sound
- Vomiting after coughing (especially in children)
- Infants may not cough but may show signs of difficulty breathing or feeding
Who is at Risk?
Anyone unvaccinated is at risk. The disease is most dangerous for infants, young children, and unvaccinated pregnant women, who may pass the infection to their babies. Treatment Pertussis is treated with antibiotics. Consult a doctor before starting treatment. Suspected cases should avoid contact with infants, young children, and pregnant women until at least 5 days of antibiotic treatment have been completed.
Preventive Measures Including Vaccination
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Pertussis. The Pentavalent vaccine is recommended for all infants and children. If your child is under 5 and has not received their full scheduled vaccinations, visit the nearest health facility immediately.
Additional preventive measures include:
- Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water
- Respiratory Etiquette: Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Avoiding Close Contact: Stay away from infected individuals
- Early Treatment: Seek medical care promptly to reduce transmission risk
The Ministry urges all communities to stay vigilant and ensure vaccinations are up to date to protect against Pertussis.
Contact: Director of Public Health
Dr. Jenny Stephen
Email:
Contact: 22512