*Notice:
The whooping cough vaccine helps reduce your risk of infection and protects vulnerable babies but cannot prevent every case. NHS vaccination is routinely offered to babies and pregnant women; our private service is suitable for those who are not eligible on the NHS or who prefer the convenience of a private clinic. Your pharmacist will review your medical history, current medicines and any recent vaccines before confirming that this service is appropriate for you.
Cost:
£100 Dose
The private whooping cough vaccination costs £100 for a single dose, which includes your consultation and administration of the vaccine.
Procedure:
1 Dose
After a brief consultation to check your suitability, you will receive a single injection of a combined pertussis vaccine in the upper arm during your appointment.
For:
10+ Years
Available for anyone aged 10 years and over, with particular benefit for pregnant women from around 16 weeks, close family of newborns and people at higher risk of complications from whooping cough.
Whooping Cough Vaccination
At Thame Pharmacy, we offer a single-dose whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination service to help protect you and those around you from this highly contagious infection. The vaccine is especially important for pregnant women, close family members of newborn babies and anyone who wants extra protection against whooping cough, and is also suitable for travellers when clinically appropriate.
Step 01
Book Your Consultation
Book online or call to secure your slot. Walk-in appointments are available at our clinics, subject to availability, but we recommend booking in advance with our Oxford Vaccination Centre to ensure prompt service. If you are unsure which travel vaccines you need, our experienced healthcare team will guide you based on your destination and individual requirements.
Step 02
Attend Your Assessment
Meet with one of our qualified healthcare professionals for a personalised consultation. We will review your travel plans, medical history and vaccination status to ensure you receive the most appropriate protection for your trip.
Step 03
Begin Your Treatment Plan
Receive your recommended vaccinations safely and efficiently during your appointment. We provide clear aftercare advice and ongoing support to help you travel with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions
Whooping Cough Vaccine
What are the symptoms of whooping cough?
Whooping cough (pertussis) often starts like a common cold, with a runny nose, sore throat and mild fever. As it progresses it can cause severe, repeated coughing bouts that may end with a “whoop” sound when breathing in, and can lead to vomiting, tiredness and breathing difficulties, especially in children.
Is whooping cough contagious?
Yes, whooping cough is highly contagious and spreads easily through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. People can be contagious for several weeks if untreated, which is why vaccination and early treatment are important to reduce the risk of passing it on.
Who is most at risk from whooping cough?
Infants under six months are at greatest risk because their immune systems are still developing, and they are more likely to experience serious complications. Pregnant women, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are also more vulnerable and are strongly advised to consider vaccination.
Who is eligible for a free NHS whooping cough vaccine?
On the NHS, whooping cough vaccination is offered as part of the routine childhood schedule and during pregnancy. Babies are protected by the 6-in-1 vaccine at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, and a 4-in-1 pre-school booster, while pregnant women are routinely offered a dose from around 16 weeks of pregnancy to help protect their baby in the first weeks of life.
Should I have the whooping cough vaccine during pregnancy?
Yes, vaccination in pregnancy is strongly recommended. Having the whooping cough vaccine from around 16 weeks of pregnancy, ideally before 32 weeks, helps you pass protective antibodies to your baby so they are better protected in the first weeks of life before they can be vaccinated themselves.
What are the side effects of the whooping cough vaccine?
The whooping cough vaccine is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling or soreness where the injection was given and sometimes a mild fever or tiredness. Serious side effects are very rare, and your vaccinating pharmacist is trained to deal with them if they occur.
Where can I get the Whooping Cough vaccine from in Oxfordshire?
You can access a private whooping cough (pertussis) booster at Thame Pharmacy, located in Thame Community Hospital. We provide a convenient service for residents in Thame, Haddenham, Long Crendon, and Aylesbury who may not be eligible for the vaccine via the NHS but wish to protect themselves and those around them.
Can adults get a whooping cough vaccine privately?
Yes. While the NHS focuses on pregnant women and infants, adults aged 18 and over can choose to have a private booster. This is common for grandparents and partners who will be in close contact with a newborn. At Thame Pharmacy, we can provide boosters for individuals from 4 years of age and older
How long does the whooping cough vaccine last for adults?
Clinical guidance suggests that a booster is recommended for people who have not received a pertussis-containing vaccine in the last five years. If you are visiting a newborn or traveling, our pharmacists can review your vaccination history to see if a booster is appropriate for you.
Why should grandparents get the whooping cough vaccine?
Newborn babies are highly vulnerable until they complete their own vaccinations at 16 weeks. Many grandparents in Oxfordshire choose to get a private booster to create a "cocoon" of protection around the baby, significantly reducing the risk of passing the infection to the infant
Can I have the whooping cough vaccine if I am breastfeeding?
Yes. There is no evidence of risk to those who are breastfeeding from inactivated vaccines like the whooping cough jab. It can be administered to breastfeeding patients if the potential benefit of protecting against the disease outweighs any theoretical risk.
How do I book a private whooping cough jab at Thame Pharmacy?
Booking is simple and fast through our online system or by calling us. We offer flexible appointments for patients across Haddenham, Chinnor, and Tetsworth, ensuring you can get protected as soon as possible.
