Taiwan's CDC Issues Pertussis Vaccination Alert Amid Japan's Outbreak

Taipei, July 19, 2025 - In response to a significant increase in whooping cough (pertussis) cases reported in Japan, Taiwan's Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued an urgent vaccination alert for families traveling to Japan with children. The CDC's advisory comes after Japan recorded 3,578 new cases of pertussis during the week of June 30 to July 6, marking the highest weekly total since 2018. As of the year’s halfway mark, Japan has reported over 43,000 cases, including four fatalities among infants.

According to CDC spokesperson Lo Yi-chun, the rise in cases is attributed to several factors, including increased indoor gatherings due to the summer heat and heightened social interactions during the holiday season, which facilitate the spread of the highly contagious bacterial infection. Notably, nearly 60% of the reported cases have been among teenagers, raising concerns about waning vaccine efficacy.

Dr. Akira Tanaka, an epidemiologist at the University of Tokyo, noted that the standard vaccination schedule in Japan typically provides adequate protection in early childhood, but immunity can diminish by middle school. "We recommend a booster dose for adolescents aged 11 to 12 to help mitigate this risk," Dr. Tanaka stated.

In Taiwan, the standard vaccination protocol includes doses at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months, with a booster administered prior to elementary school entry. The CDC further recommends a self-paid Tdap booster for unvaccinated adolescents aged 11 to 18, particularly those who live with infants or pregnant women.

Pertussis is an extremely contagious respiratory infection characterized by severe coughing fits that can persist for weeks. Initial symptoms often mimic those of a common cold, complicating early diagnosis. The CDC's alert serves as a critical reminder for parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to Japan, where the resurgence of pertussis poses a significant health risk.

In light of the situation, public health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination as a preventative measure. "Vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps safeguard the broader community by reducing transmission rates," stated Dr. Mei Lin, a public health expert at National Taiwan University.

With the summer travel season in full swing, the CDC urges parents to consult their healthcare providers to verify vaccination status and discuss any necessary booster shots. As international travel increases, vigilance remains crucial to prevent the spread of infectious diseases across borders.

This outbreak highlights the ongoing challenges faced by public health systems in managing vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly as social behaviors evolve post-pandemic. The implications of this situation could extend beyond immediate health concerns, impacting travel advisories and public health policies in the region.

As Taiwan remains alert to the developments in Japan, parents are encouraged to prioritize their children's health and ensure they are protected against pertussis during their travels.