Pertussis surveillance data from the South Moravian Region, 2024.

Introduction: Pertussis is a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, which still occurs in both the paediatric and adult population despite a continuous high vaccine coverage. In 2024, a significant increase in pertussis was found in the Czech Republic.

Material and methods: The aim was to describe the incidence of pertussis in the South Moravian Region (SMR) in 2024 based on data from the Infectious Disease Information System and to analyse basic epidemiological indicators including vaccination status.

Results: In the South Moravian Region, 3,524 cases of pertussis (287.3/100,000) were reported in 2024, with the highest number of cases (20.1%) in the 15-19 age group. Although 89.2% of patients were vaccinated, active transmission of Bordetella pertussis persisted in the population, mainly due to immunity waning and frequent subclinical forms of the disease in adolescents and adults. The most severe course of the disease was observed in infants under 1 year of age, with a high proportion of hospital admissions.

Conclusion: The dramatic increase in pertussis in 2024 was related to a combination of factors: a weakening protective effect of vaccines, genetic adaptation of the causative agent, improved laboratory diagnosis, increased awareness of both the professional and general public, and reduced circulation of pertussis in the population as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic control measures. For effective control of pertussis, it is essential to promote regular booster doses of pertussis vaccine, to improve diagnosis, and to raise awareness of the population on the importance of protecting the most vulnerable groups, especially infants.