Pertussis Vaccination: Essential for Adults, Families, and Travellers

/ Medsana News / By

woman with temperature coughing showing symptoms

 

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. Australia’s robust childhood vaccination program has significantly reduced the incidence of this disease; however, the need for booster doses remains vital, especially for adults. This is particularly relevant for individuals who interact with new families or travel frequently.

The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends that adults receive a booster dose of the pertussis vaccine every 10 years, in addition to any catch-up vaccinations if doses were missed during childhood. Expectant mothers can access a Queensland Government-funded pertussis vaccination during pregnancy. Some hospitals and health services restrict access to newborns for individuals who are not up to date with their pertussis vaccinations, emphasising the critical nature of this disease. While these vaccinations may not always be government-funded, it is advisable to consult your GP to determine what is appropriate for you.

Travellers should be particularly mindful of their vaccination status when planning trips. Certain destinations may report higher incidences of pertussis, and being vaccinated can help mitigate the risk of contracting or spreading the disease. If you are uncertain about your immunisation status, check your records on the Australian Immunisation Register and consult your GP about whether you might need a booster dose for pertussis or other vaccines. We recommend scheduling an appointment at least six weeks before travel to allow time for any vaccination courses that may require multiple doses.

General practitioners have observed an increase in pertussis infections in Queensland and New South Wales this year. In response, we are maintaining vigilance through frequent testing of patients exhibiting respiratory symptoms. These tests screen for a variety of infections, including COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, as well as pertussis when appropriate. The rising public health concern regarding this preventable disease may indicate a decline in vaccination rates, which is troubling.

We encourage you to contact us to discuss your health and preventative needs. As we navigate a post-pandemic world of travel and social interactions, it is essential to remain vigilant in protecting ourselves and our communities. Together, we can ensure that everyone stays informed and up-to-date on their vaccinations.

Timely PCR Swab Service

Available between 8:30am – 9am

 

  1. Short Telephone Consult with the patient – bulk billed if Medicare eligible. Private fees with no Medicare rebates apply if the patient has not seen us in the last 12 months.
  2. The doctor will request a respiratory panel for viruses and bacteria (where clinically appropriate).  For example, Influenza, Covid, RSV, mycoplasma, pertussis and so forth.  Not all possible infections are on this panel.  The doctor may decline the request if it is not appropriate and direct the patient accordingly.
  3. Normal fees will apply if more than swabbing is requested.  Clinical examination and other requests requires a normal consultation at another time.
  4. Patient arrives at the car park next to Building 10 before 11am.  Or takes the pathology request to another 4Cyte collection centre.
  5. Patient calls reception to notify of their arrival so the 4Cyte Pathology Collector can gown up and go the patient’s car to swab the patient.
  6. PCR swab gets sent to 4Cyte.  The processing times varies according to workflows.
  7. 4Cyte will SMS the patient with the Covid results.  Positive PCR test results for other respiratory viruses or bacteria are not named.  A negative PCR result doesn’t mean the patient is infection free.  These swabs narrow down the possibilities and guide appropriate treatments.
  8. An appropriate appointment needs to be made for results in person, via video or via phone.  Normal fees applies for these consult.  Normal fees applies if the doctor calls the patient for further clinical advice and management.  
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