Whooping Cough Cases Soar in Singapore: Experts Warn of Vaccination Gaps!

SINGAPORE: If you think a persistent cough is just a minor inconvenience, think again! What many might dismiss as a regular cold could actually be whooping cough, a highly contagious bacterial disease also known as pertussis, which is alarmingly on the rise this year in Singapore.

As of last week, Singapore has reported a staggering five-fold increase in whooping cough cases, with 108 infections recorded in 2024 compared to only 19 in the entirety of 2023. Experts are sounding the alarm over the lack of updated vaccinations among adults, combined with increased travel during the year-end holiday season as potential catalysts for this surge.

Whooping cough presents uniquely, often leading to prolonged and painful coughing episodes that can last weeks. Symptoms also include vomiting after coughing fits and a distinctive high-pitched “whoop” sound when inhaling. It's crucial to note that while this disease can affect individuals of all ages, the impact is most severe in infants under one year old, making it vital to protect them.

The Ministry of Health's weekly infectious diseases bulletin indicates that cases of conjunctivitis, diarrhea, and hand, foot, and mouth disease are also on the rise, highlighting a concerning trend in public health.

As a preventative measure, health professionals strongly recommend vaccination. The whooping cough vaccine is part of the national childhood immunization schedule, and while children receive their initial doses within the first 18 months, many adults may not realize their immunity fades over time—typically after about 10 years.

Healthcare providers are urging adults, especially those with children or pregnant women, to take advantage of national subsidies for vaccinations. “Women should ideally receive the vaccine around the fifth month of pregnancy to help protect their newborns,” advises Dr. Low Kah Tzay from the Anson International Paediatrics & Child Development Clinic.

The repercussions of whooping cough can indeed be severe, leading to dehydration from excessive coughing or even more serious complications such as brain hemorrhage in extreme cases.

Dr. Zhang Qi of Kingsway Medical Clinic has recently treated a concerning number of middle-aged men showing symptoms of whooping cough, suggesting that their immunity may have waned after childhood vaccinations. “Many people overlook the need for booster shots as they age, putting not just themselves—but potentially others at risk,” he noted.

With public health at stake, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed, get vaccinated, and act swiftly if they or their children exhibit symptoms. Don't let whooping cough catch you unprepared—protect yourself and your family before it's too late!