Incidence of Pertussis in Anbar Province, West of Iraq, during 2009-2019

E Mohammed Abdullah1, A M Abdulla2, M Ali Khalil3

  • 1University of Anbar, College of Pharmacy, Microbiology Department, Al Anbar, Iraq.

Insights

Pertussis (whooping cough) incidence in Anbar, Iraq, peaked in 2017, with a 10-year average of 13.620 cases per 100,000 people. This study informs vaccine import decisions for Bordetella pertussis prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Pertussis, a highly contagious bacterial illness caused by Bordetella pertussis, spreads through respiratory droplets.
  • Understanding pertussis incidence is crucial for public health interventions, including vaccination strategies.
  • Anbar province, Iraq, requires data-driven decisions regarding the necessity of pertussis vaccination programs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the incidence of pertussis in Anbar province, Iraq, over a 10-year period (2009-2019).
  • To determine the necessity of importing pertussis vaccines based on disease prevalence.
  • To analyze pertussis trends across different age groups and genders.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive, cross-sectional study utilizing electronic health records of pertussis patients.
  • Data collected from Anbar Governorate hospitals spanning from 2009 to 2019.
  • Incidence rates calculated per 100,000 population annually.

Main Results:

  • A total of 608 pertussis cases were recorded; 51.8% males, 48.2% females, average age 11.1 years.
  • The annual incidence rate varied significantly, with a notable peak in 2017 (21.321/100,000).
  • Incidence was highest in the 1-4 year age group and showed a sharp decrease in the last two years of the study period.

Conclusions:

  • Pertussis remains a concern in Anbar province, with significant incidence rates observed.
  • The peak incidence in 2017 and prevalence in young children highlight the need for continued surveillance.
  • The findings support the consideration of pertussis vaccination import to control the disease.

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