02 May 2024 | 11:34 AM UTC
South Korea: Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas, especially Gyeongnam, in early May
Elevated pertussis activity reported in multiple areas in South Korea in early May. Gyeongnam is most affected. Obtain vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated pertussis activity across multiple areas in South Korea, with a total of 391 cases reported Jan. 1-April 27. This is 35.6 times higher than the 11 cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Gyeongnam (194 cases) is most affected, followed by Gyeonggi (59 cases), and Busan (48 cases). Local health officials urge the public to get their children vaccinated against pertussis to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 2.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against pertussis or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccination coverage in South Korea is estimated at 98 percent in 2022, which is above the 92-94 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials have reported 293 pertussis cases nationwide in South Korea in 2023, 31 cases in 2022, 21 cases in 2021, and 126 cases in 2020.
Pertussis - also known as "whooping cough" - is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Symptoms typically appear 5-10 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms range from mild illness with low-grade fever and occasional coughing in the early stage, to vomiting, exhaustion, and severe fits of rapid coughing in the later stage. Infants and children up to 4 years old are at highest risk and typically suffer the most severe symptoms.
