Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 02, 2025 17 hours, 15 minutes ago
Medical News: Health authorities in Mexico have issued an urgent epidemiological alert following a dramatic rise in cases of whooping cough, also known as pertussis. The Secretaria de Salud (Mexico's Ministry of Health) has reported 120 confirmed cases as of February 15, marking a significant increase compared to just 15 cases recorded during the same period last year. The incidence rate now stands at 0.08 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, spanning 21 states across the country.
Rising Whooping Cough Cases in Mexico Prompts Official Health Alert
Among the most affected regions, Nuevo León has recorded 24 cases, followed by Mexico City with 13 cases and Aguascalientes with 11. Additionally, 460 probable cases are under investigation. The sharp rise has been linked to declining vaccination rates, an issue that worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic when many immunization programs were disrupted. This
Medical News report highlights the urgent need for enhanced vaccination efforts and preventive measures to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Understanding Whooping Cough and Its Symptoms
Whooping cough is a serious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis, primarily affecting the respiratory system. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In its early stages, the disease presents symptoms similar to the common cold, including nasal congestion, sneezing, and mild fever. However, as the infection progresses, affected individuals develop intense coughing fits, which can make breathing difficult. These severe episodes often result in a high-pitched "whoop" sound when inhaling, a hallmark of the disease.
The illness typically occurs in three distinct phases:
-Catarrhal Phase: Mild respiratory symptoms that last one to two weeks.
-Paroxysmal Phase: Persistent, violent coughing fits with difficulty breathing and the characteristic "whoop."
-Convalescent Phase: A gradual reduction in coughing episodes, though the recovery phase can last for several weeks or even months.
Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, as they are at higher risk of severe complications such as pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death. However, adolescents and adults can also contract the disease, often experiencing milder but still disruptive symptoms.
Causes and Transmission of the Disease
Pertussis is highly contagious and spreads easily in close-contact environments such as households, schools, and workplaces. The bacteria are transmitted through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or even talks. Additionally, touching surfaces contaminated with infected respiratory secretions and then touching one’s nose or mouth can also lead to infection.
Given the rapid transmission of
the disease, Mexican health officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures. Parents and caregivers are especially encouraged to ensure that children receive timely vaccinations to build immunity against whooping cough.
Vaccination and Prevention Measures
The best defense against whooping cough is vaccination. In Mexico, the recommended immunization schedule includes the acellular pentavalent vaccine, which protects against pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type b infections, and poliomyelitis. This vaccine is administered in four doses at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months of age. A booster dose is provided at 4 years old through the triple bacterial vaccine, which also protects against diphtheria and tetanus.
For pregnant women, health authorities strongly recommend the acellular triple bacterial vaccine between weeks 20 and 32 of gestation. This measure ensures passive immunity transfer to the newborn, protecting them during their most vulnerable first months of life when they are too young for direct vaccination.
In addition to vaccination, public health officials emphasize the importance of hygiene practices to prevent the spread of pertussis, such as:
-Frequent hand washing with soap and water.
-Avoiding face-touching with unwashed hands.
-Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing.
-Proper disposal of used tissues.
-Cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.
-Avoiding close contact with individuals exhibiting cold or flu-like symptoms.
Urgent Call to Action by Health Authorities
The Mexican Ministry of Health has called for immediate action to control the spread of whooping cough. Authorities are urging medical professionals to strengthen surveillance efforts and promptly report suspected cases. Communities are also being encouraged to prioritize immunization and stay informed about protective measures.
Parents are advised to check their children's vaccination records and visit the nearest medical facility if any doses have been missed. The health department has emphasized that timely treatment is crucial, and individuals experiencing persistent coughing, fever, or breathing difficulties should seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
The recent surge in whooping cough cases across Mexico underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage and reinforcing public health interventions. The disease remains a serious concern, particularly for young children and other vulnerable groups. With the combined efforts of medical authorities, parents, and communities, the spread of pertussis can be contained. However, it is essential to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and stay up to date with immunization schedules. As Mexico works to control this outbreak, health experts stress that proactive prevention measures are key to safeguarding public health.
Media Reference:
https://evrimagaci.org/tpg/pertussis-cases-surge-in-mexico-increasing-health-concerns-235133
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