By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office has reported the demise of a 28-day-old female infant from Balasan who lost her life due to pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough.
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, commonly transmitted through respiratory droplets.
IPHO Head Dr. Ma. Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon said the infant, who also tested positive for COVID-19, suffered from acute respiratory distress syndrome and critical pneumonia, further complicated by sepsis.
The infant’s mother also tested positive for COVID-19.
Dr. Quiñon highlighted the seriousness of the situation and urged parents, particularly those with infants under one year old, to prioritize complete vaccination, including the Pentahiv vaccine available at health centers.
The vaccine protects a child from 5 life-threatening diseases –. Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Hib.
Unfortunately, due to the infant’s young age, she had not received the said vaccine, typically administered at 6 weeks old.
Meanwhile, Dr. Quinon emphasized to “not underestimate COVID-19, as it can exacerbate complications, especially in the very young and the elderly.”
The doctor further called on for continued vigilance against COVID-19 as it continues to pose a threat, reminding everyone to always adhere to safety measures.
