Samoa is currently experiencing a rise in whooping cough cases, particularly affecting young children. Recent statistics indicate that 34 out of the reported cases—accounting for 68 percent—occur in children under one year of age.
The latest surveillance report highlights a total of eight confirmed cases, alongside 46 suspected cases, all of which have emerged from Upolu island. The demographic breakdown shows that 56 percent of those affected are female, while 44 percent are male. In response to the surge in cases, a whooping cough epidemic was officially declared on November 28.
The Ministry of Health has noted that there has been a steady increase in whooping cough activity since October 2023, which follows several years of minimal to no recorded cases. Dr. Tagaloa Robert Thomsen, Samoa’s deputy director of health, commented on the situation, stating that the vaccination rate for whooping cough in the country is “not too bad.”
This uptick in cases serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vaccinations in protecting public health, especially for the most vulnerable populations, such as infants. While the increase in cases is concerning, health officials are optimistic that continued immunization efforts can help control the spread of the disease.
In summary, Samoa is facing a notable increase in whooping cough cases, primarily in young children, but health authorities remain committed to monitoring the situation and promoting vaccination to safeguard the health of its citizens.
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