Queensland Health have recently advised that there has been an increased number of diagnosed cases of Whooping Cough (Pertussis) and are therefore are promoting earlier pertussis vaccinations to prevent further cases.

Babies up to 6 months of age who are too young to be fully protected by vaccination are at highest risk for severe disease or death from pertussis infection.

Most babies who contract pertussis are infected by a parent or sibling. Therefore it is important for mum's and dad's to be vaccinated.

• Parents are encouraged to have their baby's scheduled 2 month vaccinations at 6 weeks of age.
• Parents are also being encouraged to have the scheduled 4 year old vaccinations at 3 years and 6 months of age.
• Anyone working or caring for young children e.g. grandparents, family members etc are being encouraged to update their immunisation status for pertussis (whooping cough).
• Dad's are now able to get this vaccination before their baby is born.

Please take this notice seriously and ask your doctor about these vaccinations.

Additionally the government whooping cough vaccine criteria has been changed. This is important for all mums with babys 6-12 months old or expecting a baby soon. Birth parents, foster parents, adoptive parents, grandparents of babies under 6-12 months and other adults in the household are encourage to get this vaccination.

Please call 3350 4222 to book an appointment for an immunisation and please let our receptionists know when you are booking a vaccination. This is important to discuss this with your doctor if you have any queries or concerns.