Epidemiological Characteristics of Pertussis in the Chungcheong Region in the Republic of Korea in 2024: Focusing on Sex and Outbreak Patterns

초록

Following a rise of pertussis incidence in the Chungcheong region in 2024, this surveillance report analyzed the region's individual and epidemic cases. The analysis aims to provide baseline data for pertussis prevention and response policies. We identified the epidemiological characteristics of individual cases of pertussis, number of patients and contacts, and mean epidemic period of pertussis outbreaks reported through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Integrated Disease Information System from January 1 to December 31, 2024. In 2024, a total of 4,318 patients with pertussis were reported in the Chungcheong region, corresponding to a crude incidence rate of 78.0 per 100,000 population. Most cases occurred in winter, and the majority were male (2,471 cases, 57.2%). The highest incidence was observed among children aged 7-12 years (1,854 cases, 42.9%) and adolescents aged 13-18 years (1,823 cases, 42.2%), indicating high proportions in school-age groups. Pertussis incidence by sex differed significantly by age group and vaccination history. A total of 219 outbreaks occurred, with a mean patient number of 9.8 (range: 2-48), mean contact number of 90.8 (range: 2-1,068), and mean outbreak duration of 69.6 days. Analysis of individual and epidemic cases of pertussis from this surveillance report can contribute to pertussis prevention through education and outreach targeting school-age populations. Copyright © Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

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