The Department of Public Health and Social Services has recorded 17 whooping cough cases on the island so far in 2026, according to a surveillance update released June 8.
The latest tally includes one new lab-confirmed case and three cases identified through epidemiologic links. Four of this year's patients have been hospitalized at some point during their illness.
DPHSS is urging residents of all ages to stay current on pertussis vaccines. Young children should receive DTaP doses at 2, 4 and 6 months, again at 15 through 18 months, and once more at 4 through 6 years. Preteens are advised to get a Tdap booster at 11 through 12 years, and adults who have never received Tdap can do so at any time. Pregnant women are encouraged to get the vaccine during the 27th through 36th week of pregnancy to help protect newborns.
The agency has scheduled two back-to-school immunization and physical exam clinics ahead of the new school year. The first runs July 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Northern Region Community Health Center in Dededo, followed by a second clinic July 25, also 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Southern Region Community Health Center in Inalåhan.
Residents can find additional information through the Guam Communicable Diseases Surveillance Dashboard.
