Families are being warned of an increase in notifications of pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough) across NSW in recent months, including in Murrumbidgee Local Health District.
Notification numbers remain high, and during October the MLHD had 212 notifications of whooping cough. September had 284 cases.
Babies less than six months are most at risk of serious illness from whooping cough.
“Vaccination is key to preventing severe whooping cough infection,” an MLHD spokesperson said.
“Parents and carers are advised to make sure their children are fully immunised and up to date with their vaccination schedule.
“Children aged five years and over can receive whooping cough vaccination from GPs, pharmacists and Aboriginal medical services.
“It’s also important all people in contact with newborn babies have had a pertussis vaccine within the previous 10 years.”
Free whooping cough vaccines are available for all pregnant women, who are recommended to be vaccinated between 20 and 32 weeks of every pregnancy.
This enables whooping cough antibodies to be transferred to the unborn baby and helps prevent severe whooping cough in young babies.
Speak to your doctor or midwife about receiving this vaccine.
MLHD is reminding the community to be aware of the signs and symptoms of whooping cough, and to contact their GP if they have symptoms to avoid spreading infection to others.
Whooping cough starts like a cold with a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a mild fever and an occasional cough.
The cough gets worse and severe bouts of uncontrollable coughing can develop. These bouts can be followed by vomiting, choking or taking a big gasping breath which causes a “whooping” sound. The cough can last for many weeks and can be worse at night.
Some newborns may not cough at all but stop breathing completely and turn blue. Other babies have difficulties feeding or they can choke and gag.
Older children and adults may just have a mild cough that doesn't go away.
In adults the cough commonly lasts 5-7 weeks, sometimes longer.
Some people will have milder symptoms, especially if they have been vaccinated.
People with whooping cough can pass it on to others as soon as they have symptoms, and up to three weeks after their cough starts. Antibiotics taken early in their illness can help prevent the spread to others.
Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 if you or your child are unwell and you’re not sure where to go. This is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days. A nurse will answer your call, ask some questions and connect you with the right care.
If you or your child’s situation is life-threatening, please call Triple Zero (000) or present to your nearest emergency department immediately.