Health authorities have maintained an epidemiological alert since February.

On Monday, the Guatemalan Health Ministry warned of a whooping cough outbreak primarily affecting unvaccinated infants, with 260 confirmed cases and nine deaths recorded as of early October in six departments across the country.

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The increase in infections compared to 2024, when only nine cases were reported, has raised concerns among health authorities, who warn that without reinforcing childhood vaccinations, the outbreak could expand in the coming weeks.

Pediatrician Alejandro de Leon described the situation as “a major epidemic” and reported having treated seven cases at a school in Guatemala City, highlighting the severity of the coughing attacks and the need for early diagnosis.

In the capital city, a newborn remained intubated for 45 days due to complications from the infection, while other patients have persistent symptoms that are often mistaken for the flu, delaying proper treatment.

Whooping cough begins with cold-like symptoms, such as a mild cough, fever, and nasal congestion, but can progress to the point of shortness of breath or vomiting, so immediate medical attention is recommended if the cough persists.

The whooping cough vaccine, included in the regular schedule, also protects against diphtheria and tetanus, and its administration in the first months of life significantly reduces the risk of severe illness or death.

Experts warn that every unvaccinated child represents a vulnerable point for the spread of the outbreak, so community prevention and surveillance are essential to contain the situation.

teleSUR: JP

Source: Centroamerica 360 – Centra News

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