HPA Confirms Three Cases of Whooping Cough in Vilingili

MV+ News Desk | January 24, 2024
Photo: MV+

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has officially verified three cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in GA. Vilingili, raising concerns as the disease had previously been effectively controlled through vaccination campaigns.

In a statement released yesterday, the HPA disclosed that three children in GA. Vilingili have tested positive for the highly contagious respiratory illness. In response to this development, the Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and the GA. Atoll Hospital promptly initiated contact tracing procedures.

The HPA revealed that children under the age of one and expectant mothers beyond six months of pregnancy, identified as contacts, have been prescribed antibiotic prophylaxis. Symptomatic contacts are receiving appropriate medical treatment.

To contain the spread of the disease, the GA. Atoll Hospital has established a dedicated task force collaborating with other pertinent institutions in Vilingili. While pertussis can affect individuals of all ages, the HPA emphasised its heightened risk for infants, urging parents to ensure that children under seven years old, who have not completed their vaccination schedule, receive the necessary doses promptly.

Highlighting the severity of pertussis, the health agency cautioned that it can lead to serious illness, especially in infants. Furthermore, the HPA called upon individuals experiencing persistent coughing, particularly those facing difficulties or suffering from chronic illnesses, along with young children and pregnant women, to seek immediate medical attention.

Pertussis initially presents symptoms resembling those of the common cold, such as a runny nose, fever, and mild cough. However, it progresses to months of severe coughing fits. Notably, even vaccinated individuals may exhibit mild symptoms while still capable of spreading the bacteria to others, underscoring the need for vigilance and swift response to contain the outbreak.

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