09/03/2026
Whooping Cough – Know the Symptoms
What makes whooping cough different?
Whilst it may start like a cold or flu, whooping cough is soon distinguished by:
• Severe and persistent coughing - with a signature whoop between coughs as you draw breath.
• Gasping, gagging, or brief pauses in breathing – common amongst babies not yet able to produce a strong cough.
• Longer contagion period - up to 21 days after the first sign of coughing, and lingering symptoms that remain for months after contagion ends.
• Potentially serious complications - including cracked ribs, pneumonia, seizures, and brain injury - especially among young infants.
Pertussis vaccination – prevent whooping cough today
As always, prevention is better than cure. The National Immunisation Plan (NIP) provides free pertussis vaccinations at two, four, six, and eighteen months of age, with boosters at 4 and 12 years.
Booster shots, available in-store, are often recommended for pregnant women, carers of young infants, adults between 50 and 65 and other high-risk categories. Ask your local Capital Chemist Yass pharmacist about whooping cough vaccines.
Diagnosis, treatment and exclusion from school or work
If you suspect you have whooping cough, see your GP as soon as possible for a diagnosis. Let them know in advance of your appointment and wear a mask if possible. You will need to stay home from work or school for 21 days after you first cough or completion of treatment– usually a 5-day course of antibiotics
