CEBU CITY, Cebu (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) has assured the public that the current health concern, pertussis, is not only preventable but it can also be treated.

A respiratory disease, pertussis is characterized by whooping or high pitched sound when inhaling in between coughs.

It starts as a mild cough and cold that lasts about two weeks, and is transmitted through coughing and sneezing. 

DOH records show that of the 10 total reported number of pertussis cases across age levels, 7 were unvaccinated or had an unknown vaccination history.

“Vaccines are safe and effective against whooping cough. DOH is redistributing on hand doses to where they are needed the most,” said health secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa.

The Pentavalent vaccine includes protection against “DPT”  or diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus, in addition to hepatitis B and haemophiles influenza type B.

As of March 25, there are a total of 64,400 doses of Pentavalent vaccines in the country, with 3 million more doses expected to arrive.

“In consultation with President Marcos, I have already ordered to fast-track the arrival of 3 million more doses,” said Herbosa.

There are also available antibiotics that are effective against the pertussis provided that the treatment is applied as early as possible. 

“The medical field has known pertussis for a long time now. We have antibiotics that can treat it,” the health secretary added. 

Treatment may last from 4 to 14 days depending on the antibiotic, condition, and age of the patient.

DOH also urged the public to consult a doctor and not self-medicate.

Central Visayas is among the regions with the most number of local government units (LGUs) that recorded pertussis cases.

Other regions include CALABARZON, Metro Manila, Western Visayas, and MIMAROPA. 

As of March 16, 2021, there have been 568 pertussis cases recorded since the beginning of the year, of which 28 cases were recorded within March 10 to 16.

In the same period,  there were 40 deaths reported due to the disease. 

Health officials have noted a decrease in cases in March, from 149 cases in February 18 to 25 to 73 cases in March 3 to 10.
Despite the dwindling number of cases, DOH urged the public not to be complacent as the number of cases may still change due to late consultations and reports. (JJT/PIA7 with reports from DOH)