As a result of the current whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak, free vaccine is now available for a limited time for certain adults.
Many adults are susceptible to whooping cough and can pass the infection on to children. Babies less than 6 months are at high risk – around one in every 200 who catches whooping cough will die.
Free vaccine is currently available for the following adults:
| VIC | New parents of babies born from 15 June 2009 |
| NSW | Parents, grandparents or carers of infants under 12 months of age |
| ACT | Parents and grandparents of babies under 12 months of age |
| NT | Parents, carers and siblings of babies under 7 months |
The free vaccine is available from your GP for a limited time only.
For more information:
- www.whoopingcough.com.au
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance fact sheet
- Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th edition
Disclaimer:
- Please note this information was correct at time of publication.
- For up to date information, speak to your doctor.
