Pertussis (Whooping Cough) epidemic

A pertussis epidemic was declared across Aotearoa New Zealand on 22 November.

Whooping cough epidemic declared across Aotearoa New Zealand – Health New Zealand

Pertussis (also known as whooping cough) can be particularly severe, and sometimes fatal, for babies many of whom require hospital care.  Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is encouraging those who are pregnant or have regular contact with young babies or preschool children to check they are up to date with pertussis vaccinations.

Whooping cough immunisation is recommended for babies as part of their FREE immunisations at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 5 months. Tamariki also get a booster at 4 years and again from 11 years old.

For more information about getting immunised against whooping cough:

Find out more about symptoms, causes and treatment: Whooping cough

Please stay at home if you diagnosed with whooping cough or have these symptoms.

Reporting cases of whooping cough at your centre

Please report cases of whooping cough at your centre.  This helps us understand the prevalence of whooping cough within our community. 

You can inform us by:

  • reporting in GOSH (if you have access);
  • emailing [email protected] with details (please also include the first date of symptoms and the name of your centre);
  • emailing a photo of a serious illness form to [email protected].

Protect against measles

Measles is a serious and extremely contagious disease that affects adults and children. It is increasing in countries that Kiwis travel to frequently, including the United States and in Southeast Asia and Europe.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is encouraging vaccination for people who do not have immunity to measles, particularly those who are planning to travel overseas in the holidays.

Measles Immunity – Health New Zealand

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine – Health New Zealand

Support with checking vaccination records

Advice about vaccines and immunisation records for children aged 16 and under is available from the free vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26, 8am to 8pm, seven days a week. Māori, Pacific and disability support services are available to provide assistance.

Vaccination Healthline – Healthpoint