DID YOU KNOW?
People over the age of 16 years no longer need a prescription to receive a Whooping Cough, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Measles, Mumps, Rubella or Flu vaccination. Which means, at selected Pharmacy 4 Less stores, you can just walk in and receive a vaccination on the spot! Are you covered?
We are so lucky to be living in an age where we have easy and affordable access to vaccines that reduce or eliminate the risk of contracting so many illnesses and diseases. Decades of scientific study and research has led to the discovery of these safe and effective tools to prevent disease. Today, we want to focus on the Whooping Cough vaccine and why you should consider getting vaccinated at your nearest Pharmacy 4 Less.
WHAT IS WHOPPING COUGH?
Whopping Cough is a serious, contagious, respiratory infection caused by bacteria. It is also known as pertussis. It starts off like a cold - runny nose, slight fever, tiredness - and then may develop into a characteristic cough with a high pitched 'whoop' sound. But don't worry, it's easily preventable with a vaccination.
What is the Whooping Cough Vaccine?
The Whooping Cough Vaccine is part of a vaccine that also treats diptheria (a serious bacterial infection) and tetanus (a serious infection that causes muscle spasms and can lead to death), known as Boostrix® or Adacel®. It works by causing the body to produce antibodies against the disease.
Why should you get the Whooping Cough Vaccine?
The Whooping Cough Vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent Whooping Cough. By getting vaccinated, you can also protect other people, especially people who are too young to be vaccinated and help prevent the disease from spreading. It is recommended to have a booster shot every 10 years.
Who should get the Whooping Cough Vaccine?
- If you're an adult who is around babies that are under 6 months old
- If you're a Healthcare worker
- If you work in early childhood education and care
- If you're aged 65 or over
- If you're an adult who is travelling overseas
- If you're an adult who hasn't had a tetanus, diptheria or whooping cough vaccine in the past 10 years
So next time you're in store at your local Pharmacy 4 Less, chat to one of our pharmacists about our vaccination options.
Sources:
The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne
Government of South Australia - Health