The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak in Vanuatu is beginning to decline. Although transmission is still occurring, the number of new cases reported weekly continues to decrease.

From a press release it states that as of 19 January 2026, a cumulative 758 cases have been recorded since the outbreak began. During the most recent reporting week, 13 new cases were notified. The Ministry is pleased to report that no deaths occurred this week, and the total number of deaths remains at three. Currently, one person is hospitalised, while all previously hospitalised patients have recovered and returned home.

Most cases continue to be reported from Efate (58% of all cases) and Tanna (40%), with a small number of cases from Futuna and one case from Erromango. Pertussis affects both males and females equally, with the highest number of cases reported among children aged two to five years and individuals older than five. Infants under one year are less frequently affected, particularly those younger than three months.

The outbreak peaked in late 2025, with 113 cases reported in a single week. Since then, weekly case numbers have steadily declined. Although transmission is decreasing, the number of cases remains above the outbreak threshold. The Ministry continues to closely monitor the situation, collecting and reviewing surveillance data from clinics and hospitals nationwide.

About Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterised by severe coughing fits, sometimes followed by a “whooping” sound when breathing in. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants and young children and can lead to serious complications if untreated.

How Pertussis Spreads
Pertussis spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. Close or prolonged contact, especially in households or crowded settings, increases the risk of transmission. Symptoms usually appear 7 to 10 days after infection, and may include:

• Mild fever
• Runny nose
• Persistent cough progressing into severe fits with a “whoop”
• Vomiting after coughing (common in children)
  Infants may experience difficulty breathing, feeding, or apnea (pauses in breathing) rather than coughing.

Who Is at Risk?

• Infants and young children
• Unvaccinated individuals
• Pregnant women who are unvaccinated

Treatment and Prevention
Pertussis is treated with antibiotics. Anyone suspecting infection should seek medical attention immediately and avoid contact with infants, young children, and pregnant women until at least five days of antibiotic treatment are completed.

Vaccination remains the most effective prevention. The Pentavalent vaccine is recommended for all infants and children as part of the routine immunisation schedule. Parents and caregivers should ensure children under five receive all scheduled doses. Those who missed any doses should visit the nearest health facility immediately.

Other preventive measures include:

• Practicing good hygiene by washing hands regularly
• Following respiratory etiquette by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
• Seeking early treatment to reduce transmission

The Ministry of Health urges the public to stay alert to the signs of whooping cough. Individuals should seek medical care if a cough lasts more than two weeks, especially if accompanied by severe coughing fits, a “whoop” sound when inhaling, or vomiting after coughing.