Angela Santos para HITA

The Department of Public Health and Social Services has confirmed one new laboratory-confirmed case of Bordetella pertussis, also known as whooping cough, bringing Guam’s total to four cases so far in 2026.

According to DPHSS, epidemiologic investigations and contact tracing are underway to determine the source of exposure while health officials continue monitoring respiratory illness trends across the island.

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause severe coughing fits lasting weeks.

Symptoms may include intense coughing followed by a high-pitched “whoop” sound when breathing in, along with vomiting and exhaustion.

Health officials say the illness can lead to serious complications, especially in infants, including pneumonia, dehydration, seizures, and in some cases breathing difficulties.

DPHSS is urging the public to ensure vaccinations are up to date, as pertussis is preventable through routine immunization.

The DTaP and Tdap vaccines are recommended for children, teens, adults, and pregnant women.

Vaccines are available for eligible children through the Vaccines for Children Program at the Northern Region Community Health Center and Southern Region Community Health Center.

Residents experiencing flu-like or pertussis-like symptoms are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.

In today's E-edition bit.ly/readpdnonline: 350 dieldrin claims against GovGuam, hundreds more expected; Magellan landing reenactment goes on after heavy rain; GMHA writes off $70.3M debts, some unpaid for 26 years.

https://youtu.be/GkDMyEnSVFs?si=wi-Yh06CPUC_0DnB

2 more bets join PDN’s Convos with Candidates Candidates for Legislature Incumbent Joanne Brown, a Republican, and Angela Santos, a Democrat, join the PDN’s 2024 Convos with Candidates, which airs Oct. 29.