Guam has confirmed its first case of whooping cough, also known as pertussis, for 2026. The announcement came from the Department of Public Health and Social Services in a media release on January 8, 2026. Last year, the island recorded at least seven laboratory-confirmed cases, highlighting the ongoing concern regarding this highly contagious respiratory infection.
The recent case has prompted public health officials to initiate an epidemiologic investigation and contact tracing to identify the source of exposure. Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is characterized by severe coughing fits that can last up to ten weeks or more, often culminating in a distinctive high-pitched “whoop” sound during inhalation. Symptoms can include vomiting and extreme fatigue, and the disease can lead to serious complications, particularly in infants, such as pneumonia, dehydration, seizures, and even brain damage. Notably, some infants may not exhibit a cough but may instead experience apnea, which involves life-threatening pauses in breathing.
Public Health officials are actively monitoring respiratory illness trends across Guam. Residents can access the latest surveillance data and historical figures on the official Guam Communicable Disease dashboard at https://elc.guam.gov/epi-reports.
Vaccination remains critical in preventing whooping cough. The disease is vaccine-preventable, and the Department of Public Health is urging residents to ensure they are current with their vaccinations. Recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include:
– **Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Acellular Pertussis (DTaP)**:
– For children under 7 years: One dose at 2, 4, 6, and 15-18 months, and again at 4-6 years.
– **Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap)**:
– For those aged 7-10 years who are not fully vaccinated with DTaP: 1 dose as part of a catch-up series, with Td or Tdap for additional doses.
– A Tdap booster is recommended at ages 11-12.
– For individuals aged 11-18 who have not received Tdap: A single dose, ideally at ages 11-12.
– Adults aged 19 and older who have not received Tdap or whose vaccination status is unclear should get a single dose.
– Pregnant women should receive one dose during each pregnancy, preferably between 27-36 weeks of gestation. If the vaccine is not administered during pregnancy, it should be given immediately after delivery.
Vaccines are available for eligible children at various Department of Public Health and Social Services locations. For those wishing to schedule appointments, the following numbers can be contacted:
– **Northern Region Community Health Center**: (671) 635-7412/7456/7547
– **Southern Region Community Health Center**: (671) 828-7623
– For more information on clinic hours and locations, individuals can reach the Bureau of Family Health and Nursing Services at the Northern Region Community Health Center at (671) 634-7408.
With the resurgence of whooping cough cases, it is crucial for residents of Guam to stay informed and prioritize their vaccination status to protect themselves and their communities.
