In a significant public health alert, Quezon City officials have declared an outbreak of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, following a surge in reported cases. Mayor Joy Belmonte announced the outbreak after health authorities documented 23 cases, including four fatalities, mostly among young children who were not vaccinated. This outbreak marks a sharp increase compared to previous years, highlighting gaps in immunization coverage, exacerbated by disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Quezon City government is urging parents to ensure their children receive timely vaccinations. Pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, can be severe, especially in infants and young children. The disease spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms often start with mild fever and cold-like symptoms before progressing to severe coughing fits, sometimes leading to complications such as pneumonia.

Health authorities have noted that the outbreak is part of a broader trend across the Philippines, where a total of 453 cases have been reported nationwide in the first ten weeks of 2024. This number represents a significant increase from the same period last year, which saw only 23 cases. The Department of Health attributes this rise to interruptions in routine vaccination schedules during the pandemic.

In response, the government is intensifying efforts to catch up on immunizations, particularly for preventable diseases like pertussis and measles. The Department of Health has urged the public to follow safety protocols, including wearing masks and practicing good hygiene, to prevent further spread of infections.

This health crisis comes at a time when Quezon City is also grappling with other challenges, such as the impacts of a heavily rain-disrupted Pride festival, which drew over 70,000 attendees. The city continues to navigate complex public health and social issues, underscoring the need for robust community health and engagement strategies.