Whooping Cough outbreak

Since early 2009, several areas in Australia have reported an increase in cases of pertussis (Whooping Cough). As at April 13, 2009, more than 7,000 cases had been reported across the country. New South Wales, which includes the city of Sydney, has seen the highest number of cases, with over 5,000 cases. On March 10, 2009, a 4-week-old infant from the North Coast (New South Wales) was reported to have died from pertussis. Queensland, which includes the cities of Brisbane and Cairns, has also seen significant activity, with over 1,200 reported cases. The state of Victoria, which includes Melbourne, has reported over 500 cases. This outbreak highlights how important it is for all international travellers to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as pertussis vaccine, regardless of the travel destination. Routine vaccinations, sometimes called “childhood vaccinations,” protect against many diseases.