Vanuatu Ministry of Health has confirmed a case of pertussi, known as whooping cough at the Prima community in Port Vila.
It is the first whooping cough case of this year.
The victim was hospitalized at Vila Central Hospital (VCH) where the infection was confirmed by laboratory testing.
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis.
The bacteria lives in the mouth, nose and throat.
The first symptoms generally appear 7-10 days after contact with an infected person and symptoms include mild fever, runny nose and cough.
This can make it hard for the infected person to breathe.
The MOH has urged all parents to ensure their children are up-to-date with their vaccination schedule.
Parents are being advised to contact the nearest health facility to receive immunization if they suspect their children might have pertussis.
According to the ministry, the National Disease Surveillance System is monitoring the situation.
Photo file. Caption: Vila Central Hospital