By Marisol Bo-oc | 08:12 PM April 02, 2024
The Bohol Provincial Health Office reported that the number of pertussis cases in the province reached 14.
The confirmed cases were from the towns of Talibon, Inabanga, Ubay, Sagbayan, Cortes, Corella, Dauis, Catigbian, Loboc and Pilar.
The town of Talibon has 5 confirmed pertussis cases.
The Department of Health (DOH) said pertussis starts as a mild cough and cold that lasts about two weeks and is followed by paroxysms or fits of coughing which lasts up to six weeks.
The disease is characterized by a “whooping” or high-pitched sound in between coughs, especially when inhaling; vomiting immediately after coughing; and low-grade fever.
Infants with pertussis may turn cyanotic or bluish when coughing.
“Pertussis is caused by bacteria – either bordetella pertussis, or bordetella parapertussis. Antibiotics are available and effective against them and depending on the antibiotic used and the age and condition of the patient, treatment may run from 4 to 14 days,” the DOH said.
DOH also advised everyone to consult a doctor and not self-medicate in case of symptoms. Pertussis transmission may be prevented by covering coughs and sneezes, regular and proper handwashing, and vaccination.
