Whooping cough, or pertussis, has affected thousands of individuals, children and adults alike. According to the Australian Government Department of Health, in the years 2005 to 2007, around 16,300 individuals were affected by pertussis. Because of this huge number, where to get whooping cough vaccine Melbourne is a question many concerned individuals have been asking.
Contrary to popular belief that whooping cough only affects babies and young children, individuals of all ages can actually contract this contagious disease. However, whooping cough is most dangerous in young children, as it can lead to severe illnesses, such as pneumonia, and rarely even mortality.
Whooping cough vaccine is usually given in combination with vaccines that contain protection and against serious diseases.
The type of combined vaccine depends on the individual’s age group. Some common whooping cough vaccines include the DTaP administered to infants and young children, and the Tdap given to teens and adults. The “p” stands for pertussis.
Duration: 5 minutes (actual process)