Adult Vaccination Update

The rise in reported cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in adults in recent years may be increasing the risk of exposing young infants who have not yet completed their vaccinations. This is of particular concern as these young infants are at most risk clinically from this contagious disease. Our attention is now focussed on protecting infants from whooping cough by reducing the incidence in adults (cocooning strategy).
The objectives of the session are to help GPs:
- Recognise the increase in the incidence of pertussis infections across Australia - Be aware of the public health burden of these infections
- Encourage targeted and timely vaccination against pertussis in susceptible populations - Be familiar with current recommendations for protecting against infections during outbreaks. 

Supported by GlaxoSmithKline