MANILA (PIA) -- With a surge in pertussis cases across various regions, the Malabon City Government is urging Malabueños to adhere to health protocols to curb the spread of the disease within the city.

Dr. Alexander Rosete, City Administrator, emphasized the importance of wearing face masks in crowded places and following minimum public health standards to minimize the risk of pertussis transmission. "Given that pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets, these preventive measures are crucial in keeping Malabueños safe and healthy," he said.

Dr. Bernadette Bordador, Officer-in-Charge of the Malabon City Health Department (CHD), highlighted the city's efforts to ramp up routine and catch-up vaccinations for pertussis, particularly among children. She explained that pertussis, caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis, presents symptoms such as colds, fever, and whooping cough, potentially leading to severe complications like vomiting or breathing difficulties. Transmission occurs through coughing or sneezing.

"Recent statistics indicate that younger individuals, particularly those less than a month old, are more vulnerable, with cases in other cities often resulting in serious illness," Dr. Bordador noted.

To ensure comprehensive protection, the CHD ensures that eligible children receive the full three doses of the five-in-one pertussis-containing vaccine, administered at 1 ½, 2 ½, and 3 ½ months old. Dr. Bordador stressed the importance of completing the vaccination series before the child turns six months old to maximize effectiveness.

In addition to routine vaccination efforts, the CHD conducts catch-up and booster vaccinations for children aged one year and older who require additional doses for adequate pertussis immunity.

The CHD disseminates prevention tips via social media and conducts community outreach to enhance public awareness of pertussis. "Malabon has recorded two confirmed pertussis cases since January, both fully vaccinated individuals who have since recovered. We remain vigilant in our vaccination efforts, particularly targeting vulnerable age groups," Rosete affirmed.

Malabueño parents are urged to bring their children to barangay health centers for pertussis inoculation. Residents experiencing symptoms of the disease are advised to self-isolate and seek assistance from health facilities.

Dr. Bordador also disclosed plans to secure pertussis-containing vaccines for pregnant women to extend protection to younger infants ineligible for regular vaccination. (PIA-NCR)