Pertussis and Flu: How to Protect Your Child from Severe Respiratory Infections

As we enter the season when respiratory infections become more frequent, two vaccines are especially important in protecting children: the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine and the influenza (flu) vaccine.

What are Pertussis & Influenza?

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) is a bacterial infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. It leads to severe coughing fits and can be particularly dangerous for infants under 6 months, who are at risk of complications such as pneumonia, hospitalisation, or—rarely—death. Even older children may suffer prolonged cough and sleep disruption, while also spreading the infection to others.

Influenza (Flu) is a viral infection that affects the airways, often causing fever, cough, body aches, and sore throat. While most children recover, flu can sometimes lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, or worsening of asthma.

Why Vaccination is Important

• Early protection: Infants are not fully protected against pertussis until several doses have been given. Vaccination during pregnancy helps protect newborns before they are old enough for their own vaccines.

  
  

• Reducing spread: Vaccination of children and caregivers helps stop the transmission of both pertussis and influenza.

  
  

• Preventing complications: Both diseases can cause hospitalisation and, in severe cases, death. Vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent this.

Vaccination Details

Vaccine	When Given*	Key Points
Pertussis	From infancy as part of the national routine immunisation schedule.	Modern vaccines use acellular pertussis (aP), which are safe and effective. Side effects are usually mild. Vaccination during pregnancy is recommended.
Influenza	Every year, ideally before the flu season begins. From 6 months of age, and also for older children and adults in close contact.	The flu vaccine is inactivated and safe. Side effects are mild and temporary compared to the illness itself.

Key Advice for Parents

1. Ensure children are up-to-date with their pertussis vaccines.

2. Get the flu vaccine annually for children and family members.

3. Pregnant women should receive the pertussis vaccine during pregnancy to protect their newborns.

4. Rely on trusted sources for vaccine information and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

   
   

Common Questions

• Can the vaccine cause the illness? No. Pertussis vaccines do not contain live bacteria, and flu vaccines do not contain live virus in their standard form.

  
  

• Are side effects dangerous? Most side effects are mild, such as soreness or low fever. Serious reactions are very rare.

  
  

• Is vaccination still needed after infection? Yes. Natural immunity wanes, and vaccination boosts protection.

  
  

Conclusion

Pertussis and influenza are serious respiratory illnesses. Vaccination is safe, effective, and one of the most important ways to protect children, families, and the wider community.