Cases of whooping cough have seen a significant increase in Singapore this year, raising concerns among healthcare professionals. The bacterial infection, also known as pertussis or the 100-day cough, has spiked fivefold compared to the same period last year.
According to the data, there were 108 reported cases of whooping cough in Singapore in 2024 up until last week, a stark rise from just 19 cases recorded throughout the whole of 2023. The surge has been linked to holiday travel during the year-end period and the waning immunity among adults who have not received updated vaccinations in over a decade.
Dr. Low Kah Tzay, a consultant at the Anson International Paediatrics & Child Development Clinic, highlighted the severity of the infection, especially among young children. He mentioned, “They can cough and vomit and become dehydrated, and some of them cough and get bleeding in the eye. In the worst-case scenario, especially in very young children, they can actually get brain hemorrhage from severe coughing. But of course, some of them can actually become breathless, and especially if they have a history of asthma.”
Doctors emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing whooping cough. Pregnant women are encouraged to take advantage of national subsidies to receive the vaccine, protecting themselves and their newborns. Additionally, adults are urged to keep their vaccinations up to date as the immunity from the vaccine typically lasts for about 10 years.
Dr. Zhang Qi from Kingsway Medical Clinic shared his experience treating a group of middle-aged men with symptoms of whooping cough, suggesting that their previous vaccinations may have worn off due to lack of regular updates. He noted, “My guess is that they were only vaccinated when they’re young, but not like ladies when they are pregnant, so (the men) may have lost their immunity.”
The Ministry of Health’s weekly infectious diseases bulletin highlighted the rise in other illnesses such as conjunctivitis, diarrhea, and hand, foot, and mouth disease compared to the previous year. The importance of vaccination against whooping cough is reiterated, particularly as the infection can have severe consequences, especially for vulnerable populations like young children and the elderly.
In conclusion, the surge in whooping cough cases serves as a stark reminder of the importance of updated vaccinations and the need for increased awareness among the public to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.
