Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker has advised that cases of Pertussis (whooping cough) continue to increase, particularly amongst school-aged children.
A highly contagious respiratory illness known for causing a cough, symptoms of which may be indistinguishable from other respiratory infections, especially in its early stages, pertussis can lead to life threatening infections in babies, especially those who have not had the chance to be immunised.
Adults and older children can also get pertussis and pass it on to infants.
Anyone with pertussis should limit their exposure to others, particularly babies, to prevent spreading the infection. And, as not all cases of pertussis are diagnosed, anyone with respiratory symptoms should be cautious and avoid contact with infants.
Pertussis vaccination for infants and pregnant women is strongly recommended to reduce the risk of infection and complications.
Prompt diagnosis, isolation and treatment can help reduce transmission and protect vulnerable infants.