Honduras reports surge in infant deaths from pertussis and risky traditional practices

In 2026 Honduras has recorded 15 infant deaths from pertussis, including a two‑month‑old in the department of Colón whose mother was not vaccinated during pregnancy. Health authorities say the country has 190 confirmed cases, a 66.6% increase from 2025, and more than 500 suspected cases. Officials are urging pregnant women to receive pertussis vaccination between weeks 26 and 37 of gestation and urging parents to vaccinate their children.

In parallel, doctors at the Hospital General del Sur in Choluteca have reported two newborn deaths within 15 days linked to the traditional practice of “rociado y purga,” where infants are sprayed with alcohol and given purgative concoctions. A third infant survived after treatment. Medical staff warned that such practices can cause intestinal perforation, electrolyte imbalance, organ damage and death, and called on families to seek immediate medical care and abandon the rituals.

Both incidents highlight acute threats to infant health in Honduras and have prompted renewed public‑health warnings.