Whooping cough risk rises as holiday hotspots show 35% vaccine gap
Coastal communities Byron Bay to Noosa have vaccination rates 35 per cent below the national average.
Medical experts warn that Australia's busiest holiday spots could become whooping cough hotspots this summer. This risk grows if vaccination rates do not improve.
Byron Bay to Noosa have areas with vaccination rates 35 per cent below the national average. When tourists arrive, some coastal towns swell to three or four times their normal size.
This mixes unvaccinated locals with visiting families and vulnerable people. These include grandparents, infants and pregnant women.
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection. It starts with cold symptoms.
Then it turns into severe, weeks-long coughing fits. Babies under about six weeks cannot yet get their first dose.
They face serious risk of pneumonia and breathing problems. GPs urge anyone planning to spend time with young children to get a booster.
Get one if your last shot was more than ten years ago. A new booster costs $30 to $45.
- 35 per cent below national average
- Vaccination gap
- 2 to 4 times normal size
- Population increase
- 6 weeks minimum
- Infant vaccination age
- $30 to $45
- Booster cost
Why it mattersUnvaccinated holiday-makers could carry whooping cough to vulnerable family members. This includes newborns and pregnant women. The risk is highest during peak summer travel.
AustraliaAustralians heading to Byron Bay, Noosa and similar coastal towns should check their vaccination status before Christmas travel to protect themselves and vulnerable relatives.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
