SA Health has issued a reminder for pregnant women and infants to receive their vaccinations against whooping cough amid a surge in cases across South Australia. According to recent data, there have been 492 documented cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, this year. This figure marks a significant increase from the same period last year, where fewer than 50 cases were reported.
Whooping cough is known to exhibit a cyclical pattern of incidence, typically peaking every four to five years. This current increase is the most substantial since the 2016-2017 wave, during which each year saw over 1,500 cases. The disease is an airborne bacterial infection that can be incredibly severe. It begins with symptoms similar to a common cold and can escalate to more intense coughing fits. For very young infants, the condition can be life-threatening and may lead to complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, and altered brain function.
Vaccination is recognised as the most effective method of protection from whooping cough. The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccines for children at six weeks, four months, and six months. Additional boosters are administered at 18 months, four years, and to year seven students through school-based programs.
Pregnant women are particularly encouraged to get vaccinated between 20 and 32 weeks gestation. This timely vaccination is critical as it transfers protective antibodies to the newborn, affording protection until the infant is eligible for vaccination.
Adults who are regularly around young children, including those involved in early childhood education and care for children under four years, are also advised to receive a booster every 10 years. Healthcare workers are also advised to maintain current vaccinations due to the high risk of transmitting the disease to vulnerable patients.
Chief Public Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spurrier, stressed the importance of vaccination. “Whooping cough can be very severe, and even life threatening in babies and young children,” she explained. “That’s why it’s important for all pregnant women to get their free vaccination to help protect their baby, and for families to ensure their little ones are up to date with their childhood immunisations.”
Professor Spurrier also pointed out that many might not realize that immunity to whooping cough decreases over time. She advised, “Particularly with the current wave of whooping cough in South Australia, anyone who will be spending time around infants less than 6 months of age should consider getting themselves a booster.”
She also recommended maintaining strict respiratory hygiene to curb the spread of the disease. This includes covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, properly disposing of used tissues, and thorough hand washing. Professor Spurrier stressed the necessity of staying home from work or school if symptoms appear, to prevent further transmission of whooping cough and other illnesses.
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