The island’s first laboratory-confirmed case of pertussis for 2026 has been identified, health officials announced Monday.
The case of Bordetella pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, was reported Jan. 8. Epidemiologic case investigation and contact tracing have been initiated to identify the source of exposure, according to the department. While it is the first confirmed case this year, the Department of Public Health and Social Services said it continues monitoring respiratory illness trends across Guam.
Health officials emphasized that pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease and urged residents to ensure they are up to date on recommended vaccinations.
The illness is highly contagious and can cause prolonged coughing fits lasting up to 10 weeks, followed by a high-pitched “whoop,” along with vomiting and exhaustion.
In infants, the disease can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, dehydration, seizures, brain damage and life-threatening pauses in breathing.
DPHSS outlined vaccination guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommending DTaP for children under 7, Tdap booster doses for adolescents and adults, and a Tdap dose during each pregnancy between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation.
DTaP and Tdap vaccines are available for eligible children at the Northern Region Community Health Center and Southern Region Community Health Center. Appointments can be scheduled by calling NRCHC at 635-7412, 7456 or 7547, or SRCHC at 828-7623.
Residents experiencing flu-like or pertussis symptoms are encouraged to contact their primary care providers, officials said.