2023-11-21 23:36:33
Whooping Cough Warning for Young Children in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
The Disease Prevention and Control Office 11 in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has issued a warning that young children are at risk of contracting whooping cough, also known as pertussis. The office is urging parents to bring their children to receive the necessary vaccine in order to prevent the potentially dangerous disease.
Dr. Kraisorn Tothapthiang, Director of the Disease Prevention and Control Office 11, revealed that Thailand has reported 70 cases of whooping cough from January 1st to November 8th, 2023, with 1 death. The most affected age group is children between 0 and 4 years old, followed by those aged 10 to 14 and 15 to 24. Pattani Province has the highest rate of illness, with 44 reported cases. In Health Zone 11, no cases have been found for the past three years, but DTP vaccination coverage is still below the standard, potentially leading to an outbreak of whooping cough.
Whooping cough is an infectious disease of the respiratory system caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. The disease is easily transmitted through coughing, sneezing, and contact with secretions and utensils of sick people. The symptoms include a low-grade fever, runny nose, and continuous cough for about a week, followed by repeated coughing fits and difficulty breathing, with a distinct “whooping” sound. The symptoms can be chronic and last for 2 to 3 months, and can be severe and even fatal, especially in children.
Dr. Kraisorn emphasized the importance of the pertussis vaccine, urging parents to ensure their children receive the vaccine according to the specified criteria, which includes doses at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 1 and a half years, and a booster shot at 4 years of age. Pregnant women should also receive the vaccine between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, and adults living with young children should also be vaccinated to prevent the spread of the disease within the family.
For more information and to receive the vaccine, parents and individuals are advised to contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.
In light of the recent cases and the potential for an outbreak, it is crucial for parents to take all necessary precautions to protect their children from whooping cough and prevent its spread within the community.
News writer: Thanyathorn Yaowayot
Disease and health risk communication group
Office of Disease Prevention and Control 11, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
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