What should you know about whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy?

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, can cause prolonged bouts of coughing and breathing difficulty. Young babies are particularly vulnerable before they can complete their own childhood immunisation schedule. Maternal vaccination aims to provide temporary early protection through antibodies transferred during pregnancy; it does not guarantee that infection cannot occur. The recommended timing depends on local guidance and your pregnancy history.

Discuss vaccination with your maternity team or GP and share your pregnancy stage, allergies, previous vaccine reactions and current medicines. Keep the appointment record and follow the schedule offered locally. Household members should also ask about their own immunisations. If you develop a cough after exposure, avoid close contact with a newborn until advised and ask about testing or treatment. Antibiotic Treatment may reduce spread when prescribed promptly.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, chest pain, fainting, dehydration or a cough that causes repeated vomiting. During pregnancy, contact your maternity team for concerning fever, reduced fetal movement or any rapidly worsening illness. A persistent cough after contact with Whooping Cough deserves prompt advice. Read more about Cough and Fever.

Ask when vaccination is advised in your pregnancy, whether you need another dose, what reaction to expect, and how to protect a newborn if someone at home develops a cough.