Health Alert: Rising Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Cases in Victoria

Key Insights on the Pertussis Outbreak

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, resurges in Victoria, particularly affecting school-aged children. This highly contagious respiratory disease often mimics cold symptoms in the early stages but can lead to severe complications, especially in babies. Pertussis can spread easily, and prompt action is essential to curb its impact.

Pertussis by the Numbers

Cases in Victoria have increased over 10 times since last year.
Almost 40% of reported cases are among children aged 9–12 years.
Infants under 6 months are the most vulnerable, often contracting pertussis from older children or adults.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can contract pertussis, infants under six months are at the highest risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death. They are too young to be fully vaccinated, and many catch the disease from family members or caregivers who may not know they are infected.

Recognizing Pertussis Symptoms

Pertussis usually begins with cold-like symptoms that may last 1-2 weeks. Then, a persistent cough may develop, sometimes accompanied by a distinct “whooping” sound when inhaling. In infants, symptoms may include pauses in breathing, gasping, or choking. Symptoms can last up to 10 weeks or more, and while vaccinated people can still catch pertussis, they generally experience milder symptoms.

How Pertussis Spreads

Pertussis spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Those with the disease are most infectious from the onset of cold-like symptoms until 21 days after the cough begins or until five days after starting antibiotics.

Vaccination: Your Best Defense

Vaccination remains the most effective measure against pertussis. Under the National Immunisation Program, the following groups can access free pertussis vaccines:

Pregnant Women: Vaccination between 20 and 32 weeks of pregnancy can reduce pertussis risk in infants by 90%.
Infants and Children: Vaccinations are recommended for infants starting at six weeks to ensure early protection.
Catch-Up Vaccines: Available for those up to 20 years old, refugees, and humanitarian entrants.

Additionally, boosters are recommended every 10 years for household contacts, early childhood educators, and healthcare workers who interact with young children.

Actionable Steps for Health Professionals

Ensure Timely Vaccination: Encourage parents to keep infants and pregnant women up to date on pertussis immunizations.
Maintain High Clinical Suspicion: Pertussis can present differently across age groups, so consider testing any patient with respiratory symptoms.
Use Preferred Diagnostic Tests: Nasopharyngeal swabs for PCR are ideal for all ages.
Follow Antibiotic Guidelines: Azithromycin and clarithromycin are currently in limited supply. Consult the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for approved alternatives.
Report Cases Promptly: Medical practitioners must notify the Department of Health of cases within five days of diagnosis.

For the Public: Protect Your Family and Community

Whooping cough is serious and requires immediate medical attention. If you or your child experiences:

Severe coughing fits, possibly with a “whooping” sound,
Vomiting after coughing,
Periods of breathlessness or a blue tint to the skin,

Seek medical help immediately. Your doctor may recommend antibiotics, which reduce the risk of spreading the disease. To help control the spread, keep children home from childcare or school for 21 days after symptoms start or until they take antibiotics for five days.

Stay Safe and Stay Informed: Pertussis is a preventable disease that requires proper vaccination and timely care. For more details, speak with your doctor or immunization provider.