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Health Info - Immunisation
Whooping cough
Whooping cough is a serious and highly contagious disease (also known as pertussis) affecting the airways. This disease can affect people of any age; however, it can be life-threatening for babies and young children. Complications for babies include pneumonia, fits and brain damage from lack of oxygen, while adolescents and adults may experience a persistent cough.
The most effective way to minimise the risk of whooping cough is to vaccinate your child from birth and have a booster (if you have not had one in the last 10 years). The Queensland Government is providing free whooping cough vaccinations for women in their third trimester of pregnancy to protect newborn babies. To find out when you should vaccinate yourself or your child, see the National Immunisation Program - Queensland Schedule.
Read more about whooping cough in the Queensland Health - Health conditions directory.