Naju-si Reports Surge in 'Baegilhae Infectious Disease'... Urges Preventive Measures Like Handwashing

Published 08 Jul.2024 14:10(KST)

The Naju Public Health Center in Jeollanam-do (Director Kang Dong-ryeol) recently urged compliance with preventive measures to curb the spread of pertussis in the community as cases have surged nationwide.

According to Naju City on the 8th, pertussis cases have increased sharply worldwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, and domestically, the number of pertussis patients reached 4,803 as of the 2nd this year, the highest in the past decade.

Whooping Cough Information Poster [Image provided by Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency]

In particular, 4,396 cases (91.5%) are among children and adolescents aged 7 to 19, indicating a significant outbreak centered on this age group.

Pertussis is a Category 2 infectious disease transmitted through droplets from patients, with a high transmission rate where one infected person can infect 12 to 17 others in a non-immune group.

It typically begins with a runny nose or mild cough and progresses to paroxysmal coughing. If very severe coughing occurs more than 15 times a day and a "whooping" sound is heard when inhaling, pertussis should be suspected.

For infants under 1 year old, there is a high risk of developing severe complications such as bronchopneumonia and emphysema, making vaccination extremely important.

The Naju Public Health Center administers vaccinations to children at 2, 4, and 6 months, 15 to 18 months, and 4 to 6 years of age, with an additional booster at 11 to 12 years. Adults must receive paid vaccinations at general internal medicine clinics or hospitals.

The isolation period for pertussis infection is 5 days from the start of antibiotic treatment. However, if antibiotic treatment is not possible, isolation must continue for at least 3 weeks until coughing stops.

To prevent infection, it is important to follow these guidelines: ▲ receive vaccinations on schedule ▲ practice proper cough etiquette ▲ make handwashing a habit ▲ avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands ▲ visit a medical institution promptly if symptoms are suspected.

Director Kang Dong-ryeol of the Public Health Center said, “Since pertussis is rapidly spreading mainly in elementary, middle, and high schools, those suspected of infection should refrain from attending school and seek immediate medical consultation. We ask for active participation in vaccination, habitual handwashing, and adherence to cough etiquette.”