SAPPORO - As the new school term begins, a concerning trend is emerging with whooping cough—caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium—spreading across Japan and posing a potentially life-threatening risk, especially to infants who may suffer severe complications or even death from persistent coughing fits.
The infection spreads via airborne droplets and can affect not only children but also adolescents and adults. According to the National Institute for Health Crisis Management, the number of reported cases has been rising since around June 2024. Between March 24th and 30th alone, 578 new cases were recorded nationwide—marking the highest weekly total on record.
In Hokkaido, 162 cases were confirmed from January to March 2025, up by 22 compared to the same period last year.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a steady number of whooping cough cases, but infections plummeted during the pandemic years—likely due to widespread mask use and other preventive measures. However, cases have been on the rise again since June 2024.
To better understand the causes and prevention measures, Dr. Jun Tame of Maruyama Tame Pediatrics offered the following insights:
"The vaccine administered during infancy may be losing its effectiveness over time. It might be advisable for elementary and junior high school students to receive booster vaccinations," Tame said. "As schools reopen and people gather in enclosed spaces, the risk of transmission increases significantly."
The Japan Pediatric Society also advises wearing masks when coughing persists and seeking medical attention as early as possible.
With adults also susceptible to infection, public health officials are urging people of all ages to take preventive measures seriously.
Source: 北海道ニュースUHB
