Whooping cough cases in Rompin under control, says Health Dept

KUANTAN: The Pahang Health Department has confirmed there are incidences of whooping cough (pertussis) in Rompin.

Its director Datuk Indera Dr Nor Azimi Yunus said two children and their mother in Kampung Bahagia, Rompin were affected.

“All three patients are Malaysians. They have been treated and are in stable condition.

“The Rompin health office has increased prevention and control activities in the patient’s housing area.

“Health education activities through lectures, pamphlet handouts and information on social media have also been carried out,” she said in a statement on Saturday (Aug 19).

Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, said Dr Nor Azimi.

She said germs were spread through the air when a patient sneezed or coughed and would then infect the mouth, nose and throat.

“It can infect anyone regardless of age. However, infants and children who are not completely immunised are the groups at the highest risk of infection.

“Usually, those who are infected will experience a prolonged cough within one to two weeks. It can last up to two months.

“Severe and prolonged coughing will cause the patient to turn blue (cyanosis) as they are unable to breathe,” she said.

Dr Nor Azimi added that this could result in seizures because of the decreased oxygen supply to the brain.

“Severe complications such as pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs), encephalopathy (inflammation of the brain) and death can also occur,” she said.

Dr Nor Azimi said pertussis can be prevented by immunisation, which is given to children at two, three, five and 18 months.

“When a completely immunised child is infected, they will only experience mild symptoms without risk of complications.

“Therefore, parents are advised to get complete pertussis immunisation for their children according to the set schedule.

“Immunisation services for children are available in government and private health facilities,” she said.

Dr Nor Azimi also advised adolescents and adults with symptoms to always practice cough and sneeze etiquette by covering the mouth and washing the hands after coughing to prevent transmission of infection to others.

Those with symptoms were also advised not to kiss a baby because of the high risk of infection, she said.

“Get treatment immediately if you experience symptoms of pertussis. The Pahang Health Department will also continue to monitor this incident as well as increase prevention and control activities to ensure it does not spread.

“The pertussis situation is under control,” she said.