The Department of Public Health and Social Services has confirmed a pertussis outbreak on Guam, marking the first such outbreak identified this year, officials announced Friday.
Health officials reported two new laboratory-confirmed cases this week, bringing the total number of cases in 2026 to nine. An epidemiologic investigation linked the cases to a childcare setting, prompting DPHSS to implement response measures including case investigation, contact tracing and coordination with the affected facility to limit further spread.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by bacteria and spread through direct contact with respiratory droplets. The illness can cause severe coughing fits lasting weeks and may lead to serious complications, particularly in infants, including pneumonia, seizures and breathing difficulties.
DPHSS is urging residents to get vaccinated and take preventive measures such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing good hygiene and seeking medical care if symptoms develop. Vaccines, including DTaP for children and Tdap for adolescents and adults, are available through public health programs and healthcare providers. Officials also announced an upcoming immunization outreach event on April 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Micronesia Mall to encourage community protection against the disease.