Exploring Pertussis: Whooping Cough in Australia

This webinar will provide attendees with an update regarding pertussis epidemiology and current trends in vaccination rates.

Low pertussis booster rates in Australian adults impact the epidemiology of the disease. This webinar will explore what current literature indicates are the barriers and potential enablers to improving pertussis vaccination rates in Australia, and therefore reducing disease burden and complications.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe the clinical relevance of pertussis to various population groups, including adults and persons aged over 65 years

2. Outline current vaccination rates in various Australian target populations and their impact on herd immunity, cocooning of infants, and gaps in disease protection

3. Explain the relevance of misalignment between best practice guidelines and current state-subsidised immunisation programs, and its impact on vaccine behaviours

4. Identify the barriers and enablers to greater pertussis vaccination uptake at both patient and practitioner levels

5. Describe strategies that can be taken by GPs and their clinics to improve pertussis vaccination rates in their communities