The Ministry of Health has confirmed a case of whooping cough in Samoa meanwhile New Zealand has declared a whooping cough epidemic.

The case in Samoa is a seven-month-old infant.

A total of 263 cases have been reported in New Zealand in the last four weeks (between October 19 to November 15).

According to the ministry, everything has been done to ensure the child gets the right care and treatment.

A statement released by the Ministry stated infant had not yet received any vaccination against whooping cough. The current status is that the infant is now fully recovered. The Ministry of Health continues to observe a high number of severe acute respiratory illnesses presenting to the hospitals. 

Moreover, other countries in the Pacific have reported increasing cases of whooping cough.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by a bacterium (Bordetella pertussis) and spreads among persons through droplets produced from coughing and sneezing. Mothers who get whooping cough late in their pregnancy may also pass it on to their babies. 

The best way to prevent whooping cough is through timely vaccination of infants, in line with the immunization schedule. In Samoa, infants are vaccinated with the Pentavalent vaccine (Pertussis/Whooping cough, Diphtheria, Hepatitis B, Haemophilus Influenza and Tetanus) at six weeks, 10 weeks, 14 weeks and DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus) vaccine at 15 months. The MOH assures the public that the vaccines are safe, pre-qualified by the World Health Organization and have been used for several decades protecting millions of vulnerable children globally from disease and death. 

Vaccines for adults and children over seven years, including pregnant women, are not yet available in Samoa. It is also important for the public to recognize the signs and symptoms of whooping cough and take preventive actions. It can be treated with antibiotics. 

It is important to stay away from infants, young children, and pregnant women, especially those who are unvaccinated, to protect them. 

MOH has asked all parents and guardians to ensure that their children's vaccinations are up to date.