With winter in full swing, it’s no surprise we’re seeing more coughs and colds around Western Australia. But among the usual sniffles and sneezes, there’s one infection that causes serious concern—especially for pregnant women and newborn babies.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial illness that can lead to rapid, uncontrollable coughing. While older children and adults may only get a lingering cough, it can be life-threatening for babies under six months.
Here’s what expectant parents—and anyone planning to be around a newborn—need to know to stay protected.
Why the Adult Whooping Cough Vaccine Matters—Especially During Pregnancy
In early 2025, Australia recorded more than 14,000 cases of whooping cough, a major increase compared to previous years. Experts believe the rise is due in part to waning immunity and disruptions to routine vaccinations during COVID-19.
That’s why staying up to date with your adult whooping cough vaccine—especially if you’re pregnant or a new parent—is so important.
Even if you’ve had whooping cough before or were vaccinated as a child, natural immunity fades over time. The best way to protect yourself—and more importantly, your baby—is with a booster shot.Knowing the difference helps guide treatment and alert you to possible complications. Keep in mind that COVID-19 can also mimic these symptoms, so testing may be advised if you’re unsure.
How Pregnancy Vaccination Protects Your Baby
If you’re pregnant, getting the whooping cough vaccine between 20 and 32 weeks allows your body to produce antibodies that pass through the placenta. This provides your baby with passive immunity, helping to protect them in the first weeks of life—before they can get their own vaccine.
It’s safe, recommended, and free under the National Immunisation Program for all pregnant women.
What Are the Symptoms of Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough often starts like a cold—blocked nose, mild fever, or fatigue. But within days, it can lead to a cough that worsens at night and becomes uncontrollable.
In babies, this can lead to:
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting after coughing
- Cyanosis (turning blue)
- Long pauses in breathing (apnoea)
In adults, symptoms may just be a lingering cough—often mistaken for a cold. That’s what makes it so easy to pass on to vulnerable babies without even realising you have it.
Do Adults Need the Whooping Cough Vaccine If They’re Around Babies?
Yes. The whooping cough vaccine for adults is strongly recommended if:
- You’re pregnant (get vaccinated during every pregnancy)
- You’ll be living with or caring for a newborn
- You’re a partner, grandparent, sibling, or babysitter for a baby under 6 months
- You work in childcare, education, or healthcare
- You’re 65 or older and it’s been more than 10 years since your last booster
Getting vaccinated at least 2 weeks before contact with a baby gives your body time to build immunity.
Where to Get the Whooping Cough Vaccine in WA
The vaccine is widely available through:
- GPs
- Community health clinics
- Pharmacies
Under the National Immunisation Program, free pertussis vaccinations are available for:
- Pregnant women
- Babies (at 2, 4, 6 months and again at 4 years)
- Adolescents (12–13 years) through school-based programs
For other adults, your GP or pharmacist can advise on the best option. The adult booster is usually given as dTpa, a combination vaccine that also protects against tetanus and diphtheria.
Whooping Cough Vaccine Myths—Busted
❌ “Only kids get whooping cough”
Not true. Adults can get it too, though symptoms are usually milder. But you can still spread it—especially dangerous around babies.
❌ “I was vaccinated as a child, so I’m covered”
Immunity fades. Most protection wears off after 5–10 years, which is why booster shots are essential.
❌ “If I’ve had the vaccine, I can’t spread it”
No vaccine is 100% effective. Even with a mild case, you can unknowingly transmit whooping cough through coughing and sneezing.
Take Action: Protect Your Baby from Day One
The best way to keep your newborn safe from whooping cough is to vaccinate during pregnancy—and encourage anyone close to your baby to do the same.
✅ Talk to your GP or midwife about getting the free whooping cough vaccine
✅ Ask your partner, family members, and carers to check their vaccination history
✅ Book in your booster at Brecken Health Bunbury or your local clinic
Together, We Can Stop the Spread in WA
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your family—and especially your new baby—by staying up to date with the whooping cough vaccine.
It’s a simple step that can save lives.