Pertussis (whooping cough)
vaccine information

What is pertussis (whooping cough)?

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It begins like a typical cold—with a runny nose, mild fever and cough—before progressing to severe coughing bouts that can make it hard to breathe. These coughing fits are often followed by a characteristic “whooping” sound, especially in children, as they gasp for air. Pertussis can last for weeks and is particularly dangerous for infants, who are at higher risk of complications such as pneumonia, seizures and hospitalisation. Approximately 1 in 125 babies under the age of 6 with whooping cough (pertussis) die from pneumonia or brain damage. The bacteria are easily spread through coughing, sneezing, or close face to-face contact. 

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough and helps protect both individuals and the community. The vaccine for pertussis is the dTpa booster, which provides protection against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis).

Who should get the dTpa booster vaccine?

dTpa vaccine is recommended for adolescents aged 15-16 years and for pregnant women during every pregnancy.
This dose boosts immunity to tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis in children vaccinated earlier.

dTpa vaccine is also recommended for adults at age 50 and 65. It is also recommended every 10 years for people in
contact with infants such as new parents, healthcare workers and childcare workers.

What are the benefits of getting the dTpa booster vaccine?

This vaccine is the best way to protect yourself or your child against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, which are
serious and sometimes fatal diseases. When you get immunised, you help protect others as well.