Increasing Whooping Cough Cases
The Victorian Health Department has issued a health alert entitled “Increasing Pertussis (whooping cough) Cases in Victoria”.
Key messages from this alert are:
- Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) are increasing in Victoria, mostly affecting children aged 10-12 years.
- Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness known for causing a cough, and can lead to life threatening infections in babies.
- Symptoms of pertussis may be very similar to other respiratory infections, especially in the early stages, meaning diagnosis by a doctor as soon as possible is important.
Prompt diagnosis, isolation and treatment can help reduce transmission and protect vulnerable infants.
For further information please read the attached flyer below:
