Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccine Service Overview
Introduction
Whooping cough, or Pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection causing severe coughing bouts lasting two to three months or longer. It is particularly dangerous for young children and, in rare cases, can be fatal.
What is Whooping Cough?
- Nature: A bacterial infection of the respiratory system.
- Symptoms: Begins with cold-like symptoms, progressing to intense coughing spells that may cause a characteristic "whoop" sound while breathing in, vomiting, and potential breathing difficulties.
- Duration of Contagion: Infectious from approximately six days after exposure until three weeks after coughing starts.
Who is the Service For?
- Pregnant Women:
- Protects infants from birth until they receive their own vaccine as part of the National Immunisation Schedule.
- Travel Precautions:
- Adults planning to visit newborns in regions with whooping cough outbreaks (e.g., Australia, where booster evidence may be required).
- Mothers of Young Infants:
- Recommended for mothers with infants under two months old who missed vaccination during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Whooping Cough
- Early Symptoms (resembling a common cold):
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Mild cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Irritability
- Progressive Symptoms (approximately one week later):
- Severe coughing bouts
- Red face and difficulty breathing during coughing
- "Whoop" sound while gasping for air
- Vomiting due to coughing
- Cyanosis (bluish skin) in infants during episodes
Contagion
- Spread: Through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and close contact.
- At-Risk Groups: Babies often contract it from siblings, parents, or caregivers unaware they are infected.
Side Effects of the Vaccine
- Very Common (1 in 10):
- Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
- Nausea
- Joint or muscle pain
- Lack of energy
- Common (1 in 100):
- Rash
- Vomiting or abdominal pain
- Itchiness or hardness at the injection site
Service Details
- Frequency: Administered as required.
- Eligibility: The vaccine is also available free through the NHS for qualifying individuals. Check with your GP for eligibility.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by ensuring timely vaccination, especially for pregnant women, caregivers, and those traveling to areas with known outbreaks.