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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Pertussis vaccine

Pertussis vaccination protects against whooping cough and is supplied as part of a combined vaccine rather than a pertussis-only product.

What is it?

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection. It can be especially severe or fatal in very young babies.

Where it may be relevant

  • Pregnant people during the recommended gestational window
  • Infants and children following the routine programme
  • People needing an age-appropriate combined-vaccine catch-up assessment

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Maternal dose

Each pregnancy

Dose 1Recommended pregnancy window

Use current NHS programme timing.

Childhood course

Infants and children

Dose 1Routine schedule

Pertussis is included in age-appropriate combined vaccines.

Who may be eligible

  • People eligible under the maternal or childhood programme
  • Others when an appropriate combined vaccine is clinically indicated

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the pertussis vaccine protect against?

It protects against whooping cough and helps protect newborn babies when given in pregnancy.

Who should consider the pertussis vaccine?

It is primarily used within routine maternal and childhood programmes.

How many doses of the pertussis vaccine are needed?

Timing depends on whether it is being given in pregnancy, infancy or as catch-up.

Can I have the pertussis vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the pertussis vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.