Whooping Cough Epidemic Declared in CA – Get Vaccinated Now
Protect babies from whooping cough (pertussis)
A whooping cough epidemic has been declared in California.
Whooping cough is deadly for babies. Whooping cough is a respiratory infection that can cause severe coughing or trouble breathing. About half of infants who get whooping cough are hospitalized!
If you're pregnant, get a Tdap shot! This vaccine helps protect you from whooping cough and passes some protection to your baby.
Create a circle of protection around your baby
4 out of 5 babies who get whooping cough catch it from someone at home. Everyone needs a whooping cough vaccine:
- Parents
- Brothers and sisters
- Childcare providers
- Grandparents
Make sure your baby gets all 5 doses of whooping cough vaccine on time
Your baby needs whooping cough vaccine (DTaP) at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 15 through 18 months
- 4 through 6 years
And children need a Tdap booster when they are 11-12 years old.
You can get whooping cough vaccines at your doctor's office or local health department. Call SCFHP Member Services if you need help finding a place to get the vaccine – 1-800-260-2055.
Share this information with your family and friends. It's important!