Outbreak of Pertussis in Kabul, Afghanistan
Author Information
Author(s): Sagui Emmanuel, Ollivier Lénaïck, Gaillard Tiphaine, Simon Fabrice, Brisou Patrick, Puech Philippe, Todesco Alain
Primary Institution: Hôpital d’Instruction des Armées Laveran, Marseille, France
Conclusion
The outbreak of acute respiratory disease among troops in Afghanistan was mainly due to pertussis, highlighting the need for improved vaccination and treatment strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- 209 French soldiers sought treatment for acute febrile respiratory infection, indicating a significant outbreak.
- Six patients were confirmed to have recent pertussis through laboratory tests.
- Most cases were defined by a cough lasting more than 2 weeks in an outbreak setting.
Takeaway
Some soldiers in Afghanistan got really sick from whooping cough, which shows we need to make sure they get vaccinated before going to war.
Methodology
Patients were tested for pertussis using serologic tests and laboratory criteria, and statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info software.
Limitations
The study did not include systematic laboratory confirmation for all cases of ARD due to field conditions.
Participant Demographics
The study involved 49 patients, including 39 French soldiers and 10 non-French soldiers or local civilian workers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.15
Statistical Significance
p = 0.15
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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