Background:

Whooping cough is a global public health problem, is a highly contagious disease, and despite universal vaccination increased incidence is observed. The aim of this study was to describe the investigation of a population outbreak.

Method:

A descriptive study of a population outbreak of whooping cough between February and June 2016 in Ecija (Seville). Case and outbreak definitions was taken of Whooping Cough Monitoring Protocol. Information was collected from Health History, Epidemiological Monitoring System and Laboratory. For statistical analysis used the free software R, for measuring quantitative variables were presented, median, standard deviation, minimum and maximum values and percentiles for qualitative variables frequency distribution.

Results:

91 suspected cases were identified, ruling 33. Of the remaining 58, 42 cases were confirmed and 16 probable cases. The cases have presented an average age of 10,24 years. 62,1% of cases occurred in women. The incidence during the duration of the outbreak was 148,51 cases/100.000 people globally, and 851,06 cases/100.000 people in under 14 years. All children under 18 years were successfully vaccinated in primary vaccination and only 2 children lacked the fifth dose. The average time between onset of symptoms and diagnosis was 24,86 days.

Conclusions:

The establishment of monitoring and control measures have managed to limit and resolve the outbreak. It is recommended to enhance the information and coordination between the various levels of care (Primary care/Specialist) and professionals (Clinical/Epidemiology).

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