Investigation and Prevention of a Pertussis Outbreak in Tainan, Taiwan, 2024

Chi-Hsyu Ni^*, Pei-Ling Lee, Ching-Ying Chen, Huai-Te Tsai, Tzu-Chun Chen, Hui-Rong Liu

2026 Vol.42 No.9

Correspondence Author： Chi-Hsyu Ni^*

Abstract：

    In 2024, a household cluster of pertussis (whooping cough) in Tainan City led to a subsequent outbreak at a school, resulting in four confirmed cases. Upon receiving the report of the index case on June 12, health authorities immediately initiated an epidemiological investigation and implemented infection control measures. To prevent further spread, 126 close contacts from the affected household, school, and cram school were referred for medical evaluation. Of these, 107 individuals received prophylactic or therapeutic medication. As of July 16, surveillance indicated that the outbreak had been contained.
    Because the immunity conferred by childhood vaccination against pertussis wanes over time, and infections in adolescents and adults often present with mild symptoms, pertussis may be overlooked or difficult to diagnose clinically. We recommended that health authorities continue public education about pertussis, promote the importance of pertussis primary series and booster vaccinations, encourage citizens to seek medical attention when symptomatic, and increase healthcare provider awareness to ensure prompt reporting of the disease.

Keywords：Pertussis, outbreak