By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — An official from the local government of Quezon City reminded parents on Friday (22 March 2024) to avoid bringing their babies to crowded places amid the Pertussis disease outbreak.

“Mayor Joy Belmonte announced the Pertussis outbreak to serve as a warning for parents to be cautious, especially with babies who have not yet been vaccinated. Our reminder is that infants should not be taken to crowded areas for now,” said Dr. Rolando Cruz, OIC of the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division.

Cruz emphasized that Pertussis is a contagious disease that can spread from person to person, particularly affecting younger children.

“Whooping cough or Pertussis is an upper respiratory infection that is highly contagious, especially among children, particularly in our younger population,” he added.

The local official noted that while wearing face masks is not mandatory, he advised adults to wear masks if they experience symptoms.

Earlier, Belmonte declared a Pertussis outbreak in the city, with 23 reported cases, including four Pertussis-related deaths of infants aged from 22 to 60 days old.

(el Amigo/MNM)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — The Quezon City local government has declared a Pertussis outbreak as cases continue to rise in the city.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte assured constituents that they are addressing the matter to prevent the further spread of the disease.

“There is no need to panic. We are making this announcement to ensure everyone is prepared and remains vigilant,” Belmonte said.

“Our declaration ensures that we are on top of the situation, and we will do whatever it takes to curb the spread of this disease. We are mobilizing our resources to procure the needed vaccines to keep our children safe until the DOH supply arrives,” she added.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by Bordetella pertussis.

Belmonte has instructed the City Health Department, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and all relevant city departments to enhance information, education, and communication efforts by promoting awareness.

The local government has recorded 23 reported cases in the city, including four Pertussis-related deaths of infants aged from 22 days to 60 days old.

The Department of Health (DOH) also urged the public to get vaccinated as cases of pertussis and measles rise in the country.

(el Amigo/MNM)