Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly infectious disease and causes breathing difficulties and severe coughing fits. It can be very serious for children and young babies. It can easily spread between family members by coughing and sneezing. It can also spread quickly around early education centres and schools, which is why it is important to make sure your whānau are up-to-date with vaccinations. Whooping cough vaccines are free for pregnant people, all children under 18 years old and adults from 45 and 65 years old. The Boostrix vaccine also offers protection against tetanus and diphtheria.
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