Why You Should Get a Whooping Cough Vaccine
Infants or young children are particularly vulnerable to whooping cough, making vaccinations an essential preventative measure.
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What is Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes that can be particularly dangerous for infants and vulnerable individuals. By getting vaccinated, you not only safeguard your own health but also help prevent the spread of this serious illness. Visit Wheatley Pharmacy today to receive your whooping cough vaccine and take an important step towards staying healthy.
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We provide a walk-in service, subject to appointment availability, for our professional service. Nevertheless, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment in advance to ensure timely and efficient service
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Whooping Cough?
Whooping cough (Pertussis) typically begins with cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sore throat, and mild fever. As the illness progresses, it leads to severe bouts of coughing that can last for several minutes and may be accompanied by a "whoop" sound when you gasp for air. This intense coughing can also cause vomiting, difficulty breathing, and exhaustion. The symptoms can persist for weeks, particularly in children.
Is Whooping Cough contagious?
Yes, whooping cough is highly contagious. It spreads easily through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can become contagious as early as six days after the onset of cold-like symptoms and remain so for up to three weeks after the coughing starts. Getting vaccinated and seeking early treatment with antibiotics can help reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
What are the side effects of the whooping cough vaccine?
The whooping cough vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects may include mild redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, as well as a low-grade fever or mild fatigue. These side effects usually resolve on their own within a few days. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.
Who is most at risk from Whooping Cough?
Infants under six months old are most at risk from whooping cough (pertussis), as their immune systems are still developing, and the infection can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and, in rare cases, brain damage. Pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk and should take extra precautions, including vaccination.
Who is eligible for a free NHS whooping cough vaccine?
The NHS offers the whooping cough vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule to protect babies and young children from this serious infection. Your child is eligible for the vaccine as part of the:
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6-in-1 vaccine – given to babies at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age.
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4-in-1 pre-school booster – given to children at 3 years and 4 months.
If you’re pregnant, you should also receive the whooping cough vaccine at around the time of your mid-pregnancy scan (usually at 20 weeks pregnant), however it can be administered from 16 weeks up until 32 weeks for optimal protection. If you miss this window, you can still receive the vaccine later, though earlier vaccination is recommended for the best protection.
Should I have the Whooping Cough vaccine during pregnancy?
Yes, it is strongly recommended to have the whooping cough vaccine during pregnancy. Ideally, the vaccine should be administered between 16 and 32 weeks of pregnancy to provide your baby with passive immunity, which helps protect them against whooping cough in the early weeks of life before they can receive their own vaccinations.
What Our Clients Say
Excellent service. Took time to explain everything and provide additional information for self care. Really pleased with the service. Thank you.
Candy Woodington
This is an exceptional pharmacy. They treat every customer with the same degree of care and respect. Staff are patient, friendly and professional
Elizabeth Cooper
The team in Wheatley Pharmacy is very helpful and Pharmacists are very knowledgeable. Very grateful for the service they provide.
Jasjit Singh
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