By JEN BAYLON

The number of suspected cases of pertussis or whooping cough in Negros Occidental has climbed to 19, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported.

PHO head Dr. Girlie Pinongan said the specimens collected from suspected patients have not yet been confirmed positive for pertussis by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine.

She said necessary processes are underway to ensure the rapid confirmation and transmission of results.

Pinongan said seven patients suspected of pertussis have been admitted to hospitals for monitoring, while the rest are under home treatment.

The cases involved children aged two months to 11 years old, and a 27-year-old resident.

Of the number, 14 are from Negros Occidental and four are from Bacolod.

Pinongan said they have been documenting the suspected cases from various local government units in the province.

Earlier this week, six suspected pertussis cases were recorded in the province, with one confirmed case.

A two-month-old girl tested positive for pertussis, but she has now recovered.

Meanwhile, the PHO is urging residents to practice proper hygiene to curb the spread of the respiratory illness.

The PHO also emphasized the importance of timely consultation, as early diagnosis and treatment could reduce the risk of complications and prevent the spread of cases within the community.

Parents are also advised to have their children vaccinated, especially those who have not received a complete vaccination.

Pertussis is a highly-contagious bacterial infection that can lead to severe coughing fits and could cause breathing difficulties.

The characteristic “whooping” sound occurs when the patient inhales after a severe coughing fit.

The illness usually begins with cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose and mild cough, which could intensify over a period of two weeks.

In severe cases, pertussis could lead to pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage, and even death./JB, WDJ