Today it is expected to become clear whether extraordinary measures will be introduced against the spread of whooping cough and whether an epidemic will be declared, BNT reported.
Because of the many infected children under 1 year old, the Ministry of Health decided to allow the first vaccine to be given a month and a half after birth, and not, as it is now, after the second month.
Among the additional measures being discussed is the provision of funds for laboratory tests and additional supply of vaccines to pharmacies.
Free tests are currently being done only at the National Center for Infectious and Parasitic Diseases and the Metropolitan Health Inspectorate, and private laboratories are reporting a shortage of tests.
According to the forecasts of the Ministry of Health, the peak of those infected with whooping cough is expected at the end of May.