A tragic incident occurred a week ago in which a five-week-old baby from the Jerusalem area passed away due to whooping cough. The baby’s mother was not vaccinated during pregnancy, and the baby himself was too young to receive the vaccine. The first dose of the vaccine is typically given to babies at two months old, but can be administered earlier in cases of outbreaks. However, the vaccine is not effective before six weeks of age. The best way to protect younger babies is by vaccinating the mother between weeks 27 and 36 of pregnancy. This vaccine increases the levels of antibodies against pertussis in the mother’s blood, passing through the placenta to protect the fetus until it can receive the vaccine itself.
This recent case is the third reported death of a baby due to whooping cough since the outbreak earlier in 2023. This serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable populations. With pertussis claiming the lives of about one percent of unvaccinated babies who contract it, vaccination during pregnancy and routine vaccinations for children are crucial for saving lives. Vaccination against diseases like tetanus is also crucial, as recently seen in the case of a seven-year-old girl from Netanya who contracted tetanus due to not being vaccinated. Tetanus is not contagious between individuals but is contracted through spores found in soil, making regular vaccination essential.
In addition to pertussis and tetanus, routine vaccinations in Israel also protect against diphtheria, polio, and HIB. These vaccinations are essential for preventing the spread of these deadly diseases. The recent update from the Ministry of Health also highlighted the increase in West Nile fever cases, with a number of fatalities already reported. Prevention methods for this disease include avoiding mosquito bites, as they are the primary carrier. There is currently no vaccine or cure for West Nile fever, with treatment limited to supportive care.
As Israel continues to battle against the spread of the coronavirus, especially with an increase in daily cases and hospitalizations, it is crucial for those in risk groups to take precautions. Using masks in enclosed spaces and avoiding crowded areas can help reduce the risk of infection until the situation improves. Stay informed about vaccination schedules and updates from health authorities to protect yourself and your community from preventable diseases.