Guard against Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection characterised by severe coughing fits. It poses significant risks to infants and those with weakened immune systems. Whilst deaths from whooping cough are rare, they predominantly affect infants, which is why it is recommended pregnant women and persons who have contact with infants receive the Pertussis vaccine. In Australia, Pertussis-containing vaccines are only available as combination vaccines. At Complete Care Pharmacy, we’re committed to offering the combination vaccine as a key step towards helping protect the greater community against contracting whooping cough.
Why get vaccinated against Whooping Cough?
- Prevent Severe Illness: Whooping cough can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and the elderly.
- Community Immunity: Vaccination not only protects you, but also helps prevent the spread of the disease to the most vulnerable in our community.
- Pregnancy Protection: It’s particularly recommended for pregnant women to protect newborn babies who are too young to be vaccinated.
NIP Schedule - Pertussis Vaccine
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) Schedule outlines the recommended age to receive vaccinations in Australia to protect against illness, including the Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine from birth to adulthood.
Adhering to the NIP schedule ensures the best protection against contracting whooping cough, and it is free of charge under the program.
The administering of the Pertussis vaccine is recommended at the following periods throughout life:
Childhood: 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months and 4 years of age.
Adolescent: 12–13 years of age.
Adult: Pregnant women – Single dose recommended each pregnancy, ideally between 20–32 weeks, but may be given up until delivery.
*Catchups vaccinations are available to eligible persons who have missed their scheduled vaccination against whooping cough.
**Whilst not falling under the NIP schedule, adults should get a booster vaccine if they have contact with babies.
The vaccination process
Our whooping cough vaccination process ensures a safe and comfortable experience for you or your little ones:
- Book your appointment online, in-store, or call us.
- Complete a pre-vaccination checklist upon arrival.
- Receive your whooping cough vaccination from one of our qualified healthcare professionals.
- Depending upon the circumstances, you may be asked to remain in our waiting area for a short observation period following the administering of the Pertussis vaccine.
Specific Requirements and Considerations
- Bring a form of ID and your Medicare card, if applicable.
- Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.
- Inform us of any medical conditions, allergies or previous reactions to vaccines
How to book an appointment
Booking an appointment to receive the Pertussis vaccine for you or a loved one is easy. You can book online, in person at our pharmacy, or by giving us a call. Select a time that fits your schedule, and let us handle the rest.
Please note: Most Complete Care Pharmacies accept walk-in whooping cough vaccination during the week, simply call your local store to confirm.
Whooping Cough Vaccination Locations
Whooping Cough - FAQs
My child has whooping cough? Should they still have the Pertussis vaccine?
Yes. Even if your child has whooping cough, they should complete the National Immunisation Program Schedule.
Can my child still catch whooping cough after being immunised?
Yes. Immunisation helps to reduce the risk of contracting whooping cough, and whilst, your child can still catch whooping cough, being vaccinated means that the symptoms are typically less severe.
Do I need a whooping cough shot to be around a newborn?
Yes, adults should get a whooping cough shot to be around a newborn, as vaccination in adults can help protect infants from transmission.
What is the most common complication from whooping cough?
The most common complication from whooping cough is Pneumonia (lung infection). Whilst infants are most at risk, people of any age can be affected.
I'm an adult, do I need to be vaccinated against whooping cough?
Yes. Whilst, it is particular serious for babies and children, whooping cough can affect anyone of any age.
What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
Initially, the symptoms present as a common cold, however after a week or two the symptoms worsen. The symptoms then include severe coughing fits, a “whooping” sound after coughing fits (in many, but not all cases), vomiting after coughing, exhaustion after coughing fits, and in babies, a pause in breathing.
How long is a person contagious with whooping cough?
A person with whooping cough is contagious up to 5 days after starting antibiotic treatment or 3 weeks after the onset of cough if not treated with antibiotics
Tell me more about the whooping cough vaccine?
The whooping cough vaccine is a combination vaccine that helps to protect against other diseases such as diphtheria and tetanus.
Can I receive the whooping cough vaccination without an appointment?
Most Complete Care Pharmacies accept walk-in whooping cough vaccinations during the week, simply call your local store to confirm.
Fees
- Whooping cough (pertussis) is FREE for people under the National Immunisation Program.
