Returned from Vacation with a Cough? "It's Not a Cold, It Can Be Fatal," Warn Health Authorities

Whooping Cough Warning Issued in Hawaii
"Cases Increasing at an Alarming Rate"

Pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory disease, is spreading rapidly in Hawaii, prompting local health authorities to issue a warning.

According to Fox News on the 27th (local time), the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) recently announced in a statement that pertussis is increasing at an alarming rate in Hawaii. As of May 15, the number of confirmed pertussis cases stood at 108, already surpassing the total of 84 cases reported in all of 2024.

Hawaii landscape. The photo is not related to the specific content of the article. Pixabay

Fox News reported, "A popular U.S. honeymoon destination has been hit by a highly infectious disease." Pertussis, which is characterized by paroxysmal coughing, is a bacterial respiratory illness transmitted through the air by coughing or sneezing. The disease is named because those infected may cough for up to 100 days. While the initial symptoms resemble those of a common cold, severe coughing fits and vomiting can persist for more than two weeks.

Pertussis can infect people of all ages, but infants and young children are particularly vulnerable. For infants under six months old, the disease can lead to complications such as pneumonia, seizures, otitis media, and brain disorders, and in some cases, it can be fatal. Extra caution is therefore required.

The most effective way to prevent pertussis is vaccination. The Hawaii Department of Health recommends that children under the age of seven receive several doses of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine, while children aged seven and older, as well as adults, should receive multiple doses of the Tdap (adult diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis combination) vaccine. In particular, pregnant women are advised to receive the Tdap vaccine before their third trimester to pass antibodies to their newborns.

Mark Siegel, chief medical analyst at Fox News, explained, "The DTaP vaccine is highly effective for children," and added, "When administered properly, it provides nearly 100% protection." He also emphasized, "Because pertussis is a bacterial infection, not a viral one, it can be treated with antibiotics. However, early infection is often mistaken for a cold, which can cause delays in treatment. Therefore, vaccination is the best preventive measure."

Meanwhile, in Hawaii, two cases of measles were reported in April, prompting authorities to remain vigilant. So far, there has been no further community transmission. However, the Department of Health stated, "Measles cases continue to rise across the United States," and added, "There remains a high risk that measles patients could enter Hawaii in the future. Ongoing vigilance and efforts to increase vaccination rates are essential."