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Whooping cough
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a germ that is spread to other people by coughing or sneezing. It can affect infants, children and adults.
Symptoms
Whooping cough may start with a runny nose or sneezing, and may develop into coughing bouts which can be very severe and frightening. These coughing bouts may end with a crowing noise (the whoop) as the air is drawn back into the chest.
Young babies may hold their breath and may sometimes turn blue. Young children are especially at risk of severe illness, which may result in hospitalisation.
Adolescents and adults may just experience a persistent or prolonged cough, however the cough may be transmitted to younger susceptible children who are at risk.
A person is infectious from the beginning of the illness and may remain infectious for up to three weeks.
Any person who suspects that they have whooping cough should consult their local GP.
Reported cases in Logan
There were 45 reported cases of whooping cough in Logan from January to September 2002. The age group with the highest incidence of this illness is 10-14 year olds.
| Year |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002
(Jan-Sept) |
| Reported cases |
116 |
35 |
16 |
70 |
45 |
Immunisation
Parents should ensure their children are immunised as per the National Immunisation Program Schedule (NIPS). Immunisations are conducted at Queensland Health - Child Health Clinics, Logan City Council Immunisation Clinics or at your local GP.
One in four children with whooping cough are infected by adults, but until recently there has not been a vaccine suitable for adults or children over 10 years of age.
This vaccine (dTpa) is available free to all student in Year 10 and all adolescents 15 years old.
This vaccine is available on prescription from your GP and is recommended for children over 10 years and adults. The vaccine is particularly recommended for parents, grandparents, and those working with children, such as:
- teachers
- health care workers, and
- child care workers.
More information
Contact Logan City Council's Senior Environmental Health Officer on (07) 3412 5317 or the Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit on (07) 3000 9148.
Refer to our information brochure (pdf 76kb) including the Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule.
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