National whooping cough epidemic stable, reported cases dropped by more than 80% compared to the same period last year.

The National Health Commission held a press conference today to introduce the relationship between seasonal climate changes and health. Researcher An Zhijie from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention introduced that pertussis is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by Bordetella pertussis infection, mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets. It is highly contagious and can affect people of all ages. Infants and young children who have not been vaccinated are at the highest risk of infection, and the younger the age, the higher the risk of severe illness and death. Currently, the pertussis epidemic in the country is stable, with reported cases decreasing by more than 80% compared to the same period last year. However, parents should still be vigilant, and eligible children should receive timely and full-course pertussis vaccination. In addition, daily ventilation by opening windows, covering the mouth and nose with elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing can also help prevent pertussis. Kindergartens and primary and secondary schools should maintain daily cleanliness and ventilation, implement morning and afternoon health checks and registration for absenteeism due to illness, and closely monitor and seek medical attention early for students with cough, especially persistent cough.