Sharp Rise in Paroxysmal Cough and Pertussis
Changwon Special City in Gyeongnam announced that as of the 10th of this year, there have been 328 cases of pertussis reported within the city, a sharp increase compared to last year. The city is urging all age groups to receive vaccinations.
In particular, infants under one year old are at the highest risk of developing severe symptoms, making vaccination essential.
Pertussis is a second-class legally notifiable infectious disease that typically begins with a runny nose or mild cough (lasting 1-2 weeks) and progresses to paroxysmal coughing (lasting 1-6 weeks). It is mainly transmitted through droplets released into the air when coughing, and in groups without immunity, one pertussis patient can infect as many as 12 to 17 people, indicating extremely high transmissibility.
If infected with pertussis, there is a high risk of spreading it to those living together, such as friends and family. Therefore, it is important for those who have not completed the full six-dose vaccination schedule to get vaccinated promptly.
Additionally, to protect high-risk infants under one year old, including newborns, it is necessary for pregnant women and adults such as family members (including grandparents) who care for the child to receive the pertussis vaccine (Tdap) at least two weeks before coming into contact with the infant.
Jung Hyejeong, head of the Changwon Public Health Center, said, "If a student is suspected of having pertussis or any other respiratory infection, please keep them home from school or daycare and ensure they receive medical attention. We also ask for the active interest and guidance of parents and teachers so that children can practice proper handwashing and cough etiquette in daily life."
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