Overview:
Palau health officials are urging residents to take precautions after reporting increases in tuberculosis, COVID-19 and pertussis cases. With the Belau Games drawing larger crowds, MHHS is emphasizing masks, handwashing and early medical care to help slow the spread of respiratory illnesses.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (July 20, 2026)— Rising cases of tuberculosis (TB), COVID-19 and pertussis have prompted the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) to issue regular public health advisories, urging residents to take preventive measures and seek medical care if they develop symptoms.
In a press release issued Friday, MHHS reported that the number of confirmed tuberculosis cases has increased to 13. Health officials said those cases have been linked to 134 contacts, with 130 already evaluated by ministry medical personnel.
The ministry said symptoms of TB include a cough lasting two weeks or longer, fatigue, fever, chills, night sweats, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
MHHS is encouraging the public to wear face masks when appropriate, wash their hands frequently, stay home when sick and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
COVID-19 infections are also increasing. The ministry reported 56 confirmed cases, with six patients admitted to the hospital for closer monitoring. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Health officials also reported an increase in pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory infection spread through coughing and sneezing. Three confirmed cases have been identified, with 45 contacts linked to those cases. Of those contacts, 44 have already been evaluated by MHHS medical personnel.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a community enters an alert stage when it records three epidemiologically linked pertussis cases or an incidence of 20 or more cases per 100,000 people.
MHHS said symptoms of respiratory illnesses can vary from person to person and urged anyone experiencing respiratory symptoms to contact the Palau Communicable Disease Unit at 488-1757 or seek medical attention immediately.
With the 2026 Belau Games underway and additional public gatherings expected, the ministry is reminding residents to practice good respiratory hygiene to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
