Samoa’s Ministry of Health reports an ongoing rise in whooping cough cases, particularly affecting young children. The alarming statistics reveal that out of the current total of 34 cases, a significant 68 percent involve infants less than one year old. The latest surveillance indicates there are eight confirmed cases, along with 46 suspected instances of the disease.
All reported cases have emerged from Upolu island, with a demographic breakdown showing 56 percent female and 44 percent male. An epidemic of whooping cough was officially declared on November 28. Health officials have noted a gradual increase in whooping cough activity in Samoa since October, following several years of low or no reported cases.
Despite the situation, Tagaloa Dr. Robert Thomsen, the island’s deputy director of health, remains optimistic about the immunization efforts, stating that the vaccination rate against whooping cough is “not too bad.”
This troubling trend highlights the importance of maintaining and improving vaccination programs, especially among vulnerable populations such as infants. Proactive health measures and community engagement can play a critical role in containing this resurgence of whooping cough, ensuring that children are protected and that such outbreaks decrease over time. The focus on strengthening immunization efforts is a hopeful step towards safeguarding public health in Samoa.
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