Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives: Since 2024, the number of pertussis cases in the Republic of Korea has rapidly increased, resulting in a nationwide outbreak. We analyzed the epidemiological characteristics and trends associated with this foutbreak, examined its potential causes, and described the public health responses implemented to date, to provide foundational evidence to inform future policy development. Methods: Data were obtained from January 2024 to June 2025, and included case notifications from the surveillance and immunization systems of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, individual case investigation forms, and outbreak reports. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze patient age, regional distribution, clinical symptoms, outbreak status, and vaccination status. Results: From January 2024 to June 2025, a total of 52,651 pertussis cases were reported: 5,497 in the first half of 2024, 42,551 in the second half of 2024, and 4,603 in the first half of 2025. The incidence peaked in July 2024, declined briefly, then increased again in November before gradually decreasing in 2025. School-aged children and infants under one year of age accounted for 84.6% and 0.3% of cases, respectively. One death was reported. In 2024, 30.5% of reported cases were linked to outbreak clusters, most of which occurred in schools (97%). Conclusions: The 2024 outbreak affected school-aged children and adolescents, highlighting the need for stronger community surveillance. To protect high-risk groups including infants and pregnant women, vaccination coverage must be increased. Ongoing monitoring of resistant strains and related species, and sustained interagency collaboration are essential.
Source: Public Health Weekly Report
Institution: Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4415950635