The Department of Public Health and Social Services has confirmed two new cases of whooping cough. This comes on the heels of Public Health confirming an outbreak of pertussis in Guam, with a total number of cases now at 13.

Whooping cough is a vaccine-preventable disease, and is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by bacteria, primarily spread by direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat of infected individuals.

It can cause severe coughing fits up to 10 weeks or more, followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound when breathing in.

Pertussis can lead to serious complications, especially in infants.

The community is advised to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and seeking immediate care for symptoms.

For an in-depth discussion on pertussis, check out KUAM's latest segment of The Interview with territorial epidemiologist Patrick Sotto.