Australia recorded more than 82,000 cases of whooping cough in 2024 and 2025 — the highest number since records began in 1991 — and cases are still increasing.

Whooping cough (also called pertussis) is a highly contagious chest infection spread by coughing and sneezing. It often starts like a cold, with a runny nose or sore throat, but can develop into a severe, persistent cough that may last for weeks.

Whooping cough can be very serious for newborns and young babies.

Vaccination across all ages is vital to curb it’s spread and because protection reduces over time, a booster is required. The whooping cough vaccine is given as a combination vaccine with tetanus and diphtheria and is called Boostrix.

Stirling Central Health Clinic will be offering clinics to deliver Boostrix vaccinations. The GP appointment will be bulk billed, and there will be a private cost of $50 for the vaccination.  You may receive a text about this because you have not had a booster in the last 10 years.

If you have any questions, please call our Practice Manager, Georgia by phoning 8370 9777.