The office reports that all eight patients have since recovered following treatment but says they are not complacent as cases continue to rise in the National Capital Region.
Pertussis is a bacterial disease caused by Bordetella and is highly contagious, spreading through coughing, sneezing, and even talking, due to the bacteria being carried in droplets. Pertussis is a respiratory disease that is particularly infectious amongst children, especially infants.
Symptoms of pertussis include a dry, 'whooping' cough, sneezing, runny nose, fever, teary eyes, and possible discoloration to a bluish or almost black hue on the lips, tongue, and nails due to persistent coughing.
In infants, the City Health Office of Taguig stated, symptoms may include cough, wheezing, diminished appetite, and difficulty in breathing. These symptoms materialize 7 to 10 days after being exposed to the original carrier of the disease.
A vaccine is available for infants to prevent pertussis, administered in three primary doses until they reach one year old.
Individuals suspecting themselves to have pertussis based on the mentioned symptoms are advised to isolate themselves from household or work contacts and wear a face mask to prevent further spread of the disease.
The City of Taguig announced that their health centers are open and that the City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (CEDSU) has hotlines for those needing assistance: 0919-079-9193 and 0915-164-2742, or the Taguig Emergency Command Center (ECC) at the phone number (02) 8789-3200.
(Photo courtesy of Taguig City Health Office)
