54 whooping cough cases reported in Greece, with 2 fatalities

An increase in pertussis (whooping cough) cases has been recorded in recent months in several European countries including Greece.

In Greece, according to data from the National Public Health Organization (EODY), 54 cases have been recorded since the beginning of 2024, including 32 children and adolescents, 11 of whom are infants under the age of one. Two deaths have been recorded, one in an adult with underlying diseases and one in a newborn.

Alternate Minister of Health Eirini Agapidaki issued a circular providing detailed vaccination recommendations for pertussis, as advised by the National Vaccination Committee.

Pertussis is an highly contagious and acute microbial respiratory infection, with an 80% secondary infection rate among infected individuals. Transmission from person to person occurs through droplets or direct contact with secretions from the respiratory system of infected individuals.

AMNA