Where can you get the pertussis vaccine?

The appropriate location depends on your age, vaccination history, pregnancy status, and the services offered locally. A clinic can check whether the product is suitable, review earlier doses, and record the vaccination correctly. Pharmacies or other providers may have different policies, so confirm availability and appointment requirements before travelling. Bring any health information that could affect the decision.

Call a nearby primary-care or immunisation service and ask specifically for a pertussis-containing vaccine. Have your vaccination record, identity details, and information about allergies or previous vaccine reactions ready. Mention pregnancy, plans for pregnancy, immune problems, or current illness. If the service cannot provide the vaccine, ask where it refers patients rather than delaying the conversation.

A vaccination appointment is not a substitute for assessment of an active illness. Seek medical advice for a persistent or spasmodic cough, vomiting after coughing, or a cough affecting feeding. Get urgent help for difficult breathing, blue or grey lips, fainting, confusion, or pauses in an infant’s breathing. Tell the service about recent exposure to whooping cough.

Ask whether the service offers the vaccine, whether you need an appointment, and which records are required. Confirm whether your previous doses count and whether pregnancy or close contact with a newborn changes the recommendation.