The Hawaii Department of Health has announced a rise in pertussis cases within the state and is advising residents to stay current with their vaccinations.
As of May 15, there have been 108 reported cases of pertussis, which is a noticeable increase from the 84 cases recorded for all of 2024.
“Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness that spreads through the air, primarily via the coughs or sneezes of an infected individual,” stated the department in a recent news release. “At first, symptoms may mimic a cold, but they can escalate to severe coughing fits. For children, these fits may culminate in a deep breath that produces a whooping sound.”
Health risks from pertussis can be quite serious, particularly for infants and young children who haven’t received complete vaccinations, according to the department.
Potential complications from the disease include pneumonia, seizures, apnea (temporary cessation of breathing), encephalopathy (a brain disorder), and even death.
“Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent pertussis, with either the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) or Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccines,” DOH emphasized. “Multiple doses are recommended for infants, children, and adults.”
On another note, the department reported that no new measles cases have occurred since the two early April confirmations—one involving a child under five and the other an adult family member—both related to international travel.
DOH has determined that there has been no additional community transmission stemming from these cases.
However, health officials are worried about the continuing rise in cases on the mainland, which have now exceeded 1,000 in 30 states this year.
“DOH urges continued vigilance and efforts to enhance the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination rates,” the department advised. “High vaccination levels help safeguard both individuals and communities, preventing isolated cases from evolving into outbreaks.”
Since 2019, vaccination rates for all recommended immunizations necessary for school entry, including those for measles, pertussis, polio, and chickenpox, have been declining both in Hawaii and across the nation.
DOH strongly encourages that both children and adults remain up-to-date on vaccinations to avoid diseases that could have been prevented by vaccines. They also urge residents to engage in discussions with trusted healthcare providers regarding any vaccine-related concerns.
