Protects against whooping cough, a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes severe coughing fits and can be serious, especially for infants.
Side effects: May include mild arm soreness, low fever, headache, or tiredness. These effects usually pass within a day or two.
Additional precautions: Vaccination is especially important for pregnant women and anyone in close contact with young babies, as it helps shield newborns who are too young to be fully vaccinated.
Before your appointment: No specific preparation is needed. Inform the clinician if you have had previous reactions to vaccines or have any ongoing medical conditions.
Risks caused by pertussis: Can trigger long-lasting coughing fits, difficulty breathing, vomiting after coughing, and in infants can lead to pneumonia or hospitalisation.