Whooping Cough Cases Exceed 400 in Ulsan After 3 Years... Ulsan City Issues Infectious Disease Spread 'Warning'

Request to Follow Respiratory Infection Prevention Guidelines in Winter

Whooping Cough Cases Nationwide Increase Over 187 Times Compared to Last Year

Ulsan City has raised warning signs over the spread of winter respiratory infectious diseases such as pertussis and influenza.

In the case of pertussis, the number of cases nationwide surged more than 187 times from 220 last year to 41,199 as of December 9. In Ulsan as well, there were only 1 suspected case in the past three years, but this year 436 cases have been reported, showing a rapid increase.

Pertussis is characterized by symptoms such as paroxysmal coughing, post-cough vomiting, and apnea, with infection and transmission becoming more active in low temperatures.

Influenza also prevails in winter, accompanied by cough, sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, chills, and severe muscle pain. If left untreated, it can lead to respiratory complications and cardiopulmonary diseases, so special caution is required for infants, seniors aged 65 and over, and those with chronic illnesses.

Respiratory infectious diseases spread easily, so it is essential to strictly follow daily preventive measures such as hand washing, wearing masks, observing cough etiquette, ventilating indoor spaces, and timely vaccinations.

To prevent the spread of winter respiratory infectious diseases, Ulsan City plans to implement measures including △strengthening promotion of personal hygiene rules △establishing a joint response system with related organizations △re-designating COVID-19 fever clinics and cooperating hospitals for treatment.

An official from Ulsan City said, “To protect high-risk groups for pertussis, such as infants under 1 year old, we strongly recommend pertussis vaccination for pregnant women, and hope that family members, grandparents, caregivers, and others who are close to infants also participate in vaccination.” They also recommended simultaneous vaccination for COVID-19 and influenza for those aged 65 and over.

Ulsan City Hall exterior view. (Photo by Ulsan City Hall)

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.