A PERTUSSIS (whooping cough) outbreak is expected to be declared in Keningau, following two confirmed cases in the Sabah district on August 2.

A Health Department circular, which has gone viral, noted a request from the Keningau health officer to declare the outbreak.

It was reported that the two cases may have originated from Taman Kota in Kampung Sungai, Keningau.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs and airways, but it can be treated with antibiotics.

State Health director Dr Christina Rundi, when contacted, neither denied nor confirmed the matter, but said the circular was an internal one and not meant for public viewing.

A Keningau Hospital source said the first sign of pertussis was detected on July 8 and the state Health Department was notified of it on July 18.

“It could not be confirmed, however, whether there have been new cases reported afterwards.”

He confirmed that the circular contained errors, and clarified that the outbreak started on July 19 and was expected to end on September 23, making the duration 65 days, and not 42.

“Medical personnel are now on the ground to check whether there are new cases and vaccinate those who are showing symptoms.”

He said whooping cough could be fatal for young children who had yet to have a fully developed immune system. – August 4, 2017.