Two individuals have died from pertussis or ‘whooping cough’ in the Bicol region.

The fatalities were residents of Lupi, Camarines Sur and in Masbate province.

According to the bulletin from the Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol, the region has recorded a total of 35 cases of pertussis.

Pertussis symptoms typically include persistent coughing fits lasting for two weeks or more, followed by vomiting after coughing.

DOH continues to advocate for vaccination among children to prevent the spread of the disease.

“Nagkakampanya ang Department of Health na gabos kita na mga magurang, gabos na mga aki pabakunahan ta. Ining naglalakaw ngunyan na helang na pertussis maiiwasan yan o dae sana yan nangyari, kung igwa kitang herd immunity sa pertussis,” Dr. Rey Millena from DOH Camarines Sur, said.