The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) has confirmed six laboratory cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in Guam this year, with evidence of local transmission as health officials expand vaccination and outreach efforts.
Officials are also monitoring 30 confirmed and suspected cases regionally, with most infections occurring among individuals who are not up to date on vaccinations.
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero urged residents to take preventive action.
“We are taking proactive steps to protect our island… I encourage our community, especially families with young children, to get vaccinated and seek care early,” she said.
Response Efforts
DPHSS is preparing to roll out mobile clinics and community outreach services, which will include:
DTaP and Tdap vaccinations
Health guidance
Support for symptomatic individuals
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero emphasized that pertussis is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination.
What Residents Should Do
DPHSS is urging the public to:
Ensure vaccinations are up to date
Get vaccinated as soon as possible
Seek medical care if experiencing symptoms
Vaccines are available through DPHSS programs, including the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, and at community health centers across the island.
Where to Get Vaccinated
Northern Region Community Health Center: (671) 635-7412
Southern Region Community Health Center: (671) 828-7511
Director Theresa C. Arriola stressed the importance of prevention, saying vaccination helps protect families and the broader community.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and will release additional updates, including details on mobile clinic schedules.