Whooping Cough Vaccine: Why Adults and Pregnant Women Should Check They Are Protected
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is not just a childhood illness. Recent UK Health Security Agency data shows that most confirmed cases are now in people aged 15 and over. Pregnant women are advised to have the vaccine during every pregnancy to help protect their newborn baby. If you are pregnant, live with a young baby or cannot remember your vaccination history, it is worth checking your protection.
What Is Whooping Cough, and Why Does It Still Matter in the UK?
Whooping cough is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the airways. It causes long, exhausting bouts of coughing, sometimes followed by the familiar “whoop” as the person gasps for breath. It spreads easily through coughs and sneezes.
Cases in England rose sharply between 2023 and 2024. Although numbers fell during 2025, whooping cough continues to be monitored because young babies are particularly vulnerable before they have started their own routine vaccinations.
Do Adults Need a Whooping Cough Vaccine?
Whooping cough vaccination is not routinely recommended for all adults. However, there are situations where checking your protection may be worthwhile.
Immunity from childhood vaccination can reduce over time, and adults can have whooping cough without recognising it. A persistent cough can be mistaken for a cold or chest infection, allowing the infection to spread to babies who are more vulnerable to serious illness.
If you live with, care for or regularly spend time around a young baby, speak to a pharmacist about whether vaccination may be suitable for you.
Why Is the Whooping Cough Vaccine Recommended in Pregnancy?
The vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy because it helps pass antibodies to your baby before birth. The NHS advises having it between 16 and 32 weeks of pregnancy, although it can be given later if needed.
The antibodies cross the placenta and help protect your baby during their first weeks of life, before their routine vaccinations begin at eight weeks. Your baby will still need all their routine NHS vaccinations. Pregnancy is also a good time to check whether you’re up to date on other vaccines recommended during this stage, such as the RSV vaccine, which is also offered at Ham Parade and Ham Village.
What Are the Symptoms of Whooping Cough in Adults?
In adults, whooping cough can initially feel like a cold, with symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat and mild fever. This can develop into prolonged bouts of coughing that may continue for several weeks.
Adults do not always make the classic “whoop”, so the infection can be difficult to recognise. If you have a persistent cough, particularly after contact with someone who has whooping cough, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
How and Where Can You Get Vaccinated?
Ham Pharmacy Group provides the whooping cough vaccine at Ham Parade and Ham Village. Before vaccination, a GPhC registered pharmacist will check your suitability and answer any questions you may have. Full details for both branches, including addresses and opening hours, are on our contact page.
The service is available to patients across Richmond, Kingston, Teddington, New Malden, Surbiton, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton, Tolworth, Sunbury on Thames, Walton on Thames, Esher, Hersham and Worcester Park.
If you are pregnant, your midwife or GP surgery may also provide the vaccine through NHS antenatal care. If you’re also planning travel, it’s worth checking whether you need any travel vaccinations before your trip, since some are not suitable in pregnancy.
Is the Whooping Cough Vaccine Safe?
Yes. The vaccine is considered safe for most people, including during pregnancy. Common side effects include a sore arm, mild fever or tiredness, while serious reactions are rare. A pharmacist will check your suitability before vaccination.
Get Your Whooping Cough Vaccine at Ham Pharmacy Group
Looking for a whooping cough vaccine in Richmond, Kingston or nearby? Book an appointment at Ham Parade or Ham Village and speak to our GPhC registered pharmacist team about your vaccination needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. During pregnancy, the vaccine is recommended in every pregnancy because protection reduces over time and each baby needs protection during their first weeks.
The NHS offers the vaccine free to pregnant women through midwives or GP surgeries. Private vaccination services may charge a fee.
This is often possible. A pharmacist can advise on the best timing for your vaccinations.
Yes. Your baby will still need their routine NHS vaccinations, starting at eight weeks
Yes. An appointment allows the pharmacist to check your suitability and answer any questions before vaccination.