Press Release | 18 May 2024

Halfway through the second quarter of 2024, the Department of Health
(DOH) delivers on its commitment to stem the transmission of Measles
and Pertussis cases. Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa, on orders of
President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, Jr., continues to secure
population health through intensified vaccination campaigns with local
governments, primary care doctors, and allied health workers.

Bangsamoro is lead DOH partner in Measles outbreak control

Measles-Rubella (MR) cases are now on a decline. Data as of May 11,
2024 (Morbidity Week 19) shows a total of 2,552 MR cases reported
since the start of the year. The nationwide MR epidemic curve is now
showing signs of decrease. Only five deaths have been reported.
Children under 10 years of age have been the most-at-risk age group
for MR, making up 83% (2,114) of the total number of cases.

MR case counts in the recent three to four weeks (April 14 to April
27) are 8% lower, reporting 408 cases, compared to the 442 cases two
weeks ago (March 31 to April 13). All regions did not have a
continuous increase of MR cases during the most recent six-week
monitoring period. Note that case counts may change as there may be
late consultations and reports.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Bangsamoro)
through its Ministry of Health (MOH) has been the lead partner of DOH
in bringing the MR cases down. While the Bangsamoro recorded the most
number of cases at 1,196, the outbreak response immunization (ORI)
spearheaded by the Bangsamoro MOH has resulted in 65% lower case
counts in the region, comparing April 28 to May 11 with April 14 to
April 27. DOH and the Bangsamoro MOH continue to deploy catch-up
immunization and ORI according to the specific Bangsamoro areas where
MR cases are still being found.

Local government coordination with DOH key to lowering Pertussis cases

Meanwhile, Pertussis (Filipino: Tusperina) is also on a decline. All
regions did not have a continuous increase of Pertussis cases during
the most recent six-week monitoring period. Data as of May 11, 2024
(Morbidity Wekk 19) shows a total of 2,521 Pertussis cases reported
since the start of the year. The nationwide Pertussis epidemic curve
shows a continuous decrease in cases, with new cases from April 14 to
27 (375) being 25% lower than March 31 to April 13 (499). Pertussis
deaths number at 96. Note that case counts may change as there may be
late consultations and reports.

“We thank President Marcos for his strong support for vaccination
efforts against both Measles and Pertussis. In fact, the President
himself knows and reminds us at the DOH that we cannot rest even with
this accomplishment that is a product of calm and collected, quick and
decisive action by local governments in coordination with the DOH. The
greater task of routine immunization beckons,” said Secretary Herbosa.
“We continue to await the millions of doses of pentavalent vaccines
coming in this third quarter. The DOH through its Centers for Health
Development is now preparing with LGUs to immediately deploy those
doses once they arrive. Congratulations to all of our partners; please
don’t rest yet – we have more to do!” added the Health Chief.