Guam has recorded its first laboratory-confirmed case of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, for the year 2026. The announcement was made by the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) in a media release issued on January 8. This case marks a notable development, especially following a total of seven confirmed cases in 2025, according to data from the DPHSS.
In response to the recent case, public health officials have initiated an epidemiologic investigation and contact tracing to identify the source of exposure. Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. The infection is characterized by severe coughing fits that can persist for up to ten weeks, often followed by a distinctive high-pitched “whoop” sound during inhalation.
Complications from whooping cough can be particularly severe, especially in infants. Symptoms may include not only intense coughing but also vomiting and fatigue. In some cases, infants may not exhibit a cough at all; instead, they may experience apnea—life-threatening pauses in breathing—or other respiratory difficulties. The potential for serious complications underscores the importance of vaccination.
The DPHSS continues to monitor trends in respiratory illnesses across the island. Residents are encouraged to check the latest surveillance data and historical figures available on the official Guam Communicable Disease dashboard at https://elc.guam.gov/epi-reports.
Vaccination is key in preventing whooping cough, and the DPHSS is urging the public to ensure they are up to date with their immunizations. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided specific vaccine recommendations to combat this disease:
– For children under seven years: The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Acellular Pertussis (DTaP) vaccine is administered in five doses at ages 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years.
– For children aged 7-10 years who are not fully vaccinated: A single dose of Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) is recommended as part of a catch-up series.
– For adolescents aged 11-18 years: A single dose of Tdap is advised, preferably at ages 11-12 years.
– For adults aged 19 years and older: A single Tdap dose is recommended for those who have not been previously vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
– For pregnant women: One dose of Tdap is recommended during each pregnancy, ideally between 27-36 weeks of gestation. If Tdap is not administered during pregnancy, it should be given immediately after delivery.
The DPHSS offers the DTaP and Tdap vaccines at various locations for children eligible for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. For more information or to schedule an appointment, individuals can contact the following health centers:
– Northern Region Community Health Center: Call (671) 635-7412/7456/7547
– Southern Region Community Health Center: Call (671) 828-7623
– Bureau of Family Health and Nursing Services: Located in the Northern Region Community Health Center, call (671) 634-7408 for details on clinic hours and locations.
As the DPHSS continues to address public health concerns, the community is reminded of the importance of vaccination in preventing diseases like whooping cough.
