South Australia is currently seeing a significant increase in whooping Cough cases, with recent health data indicating 663 cases so far this year compared to only 59 at the same point last year – an increase of over 100%.
This alarming surge is leading to an urgent calls for adults, especially those caring for or working with infants, to get vaccinated.
National Pharmacies’ Chief Pharmacist, Bec Rogers, emphasised the critical role of adult vaccination in protecting infants, who are most susceptible to the disease.
“The best way to protect vulnerable babies from Whooping Cough in South Australia is to ensure adults who care for and work with young children receive a Whooping Cough booster,” Rogers stated.
She noted that while the boosters are most commonly given to adults expecting a new baby in the family, other vulnerable groups should also consider receiving the vaccine. These groups include pregnant women, healthcare workers, early childcare educators, those in close contact with infants, and adults aged 65 and up.
The recent spike in cases to a record 75 incidents in the last week alone underlines the severity of the current outbreak.
According to Rogers, adults who frequently interact with infants younger than six months should verify their vaccination status and get a booster if necessary. Infants in this age group are particularly at risk as they have not yet completed their full course of vaccinations against the disease.
Whooping Cough, or Pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that leads to severe coughing fits and can last for up to 100 days. It is especially dangerous for young children and can result in hospital admissions and even fatalities.
Rogers also highlighted the role of community pharmacies in addressing the outbreak.
“Community pharmacies like National Pharmacies are able to administer Whooping Cough immunizations to adults and children aged five and up, providing greater access to healthcare and helping ease pressure off our busy hospitals and GPs,” she said.
South Australians can access Whooping Cough vaccinations from National Pharmacies, where they can either call their local outlet or book online under ‘health services’.
With the ongoing risk posed by the disease, timely vaccination is essential in curbing the spread of this potentially life-threatening infection.
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