Cocoon vaccinations, known as whooping cough vaccinations, are an essential protection to prevent possible illness, and it is suggested that those close to the baby keep up-to-date with their shots.
Cocoon vaccinations are those the family has if they have missed any scheduled vaccinations to prevent a new baby from falling ill.
Babies are incredibly vulnerable to infection and illness, so cocoon vaccinations form another layer of protection around the baby, as their immune systems are not yet fully developed.
Shielding your baby from sickness, particularly respiratory illness, whooping cough (pertussis), flu (influenza) and other dangerous diseases, is up to the adults to safeguard themselves.
Babies younger than six months cannot receive a flu vaccination. It is also advised that pregnant mothers be given this inoculation to enable them to pass on antibodies to their unborn babies. Parents will feel happier knowing that those around their newborn bundle are up to date with their vaccinations, and don’t pose a health threat to their baby.
What is whooping cough?
Whooping cough is a bacterial infection of the lungs and airways that causes intense coughing. In adults, the frustrating, never-ending cough can be simply an annoyance; however, in little babies, it is a serious matter.
At times it can cause life-threatening complications as there can be difficulty breathing. Coughs, close contact and sneezes may result in this highly contagious infection.
Basic scheduled vaccinations
Ensure your baby is kept up to date with the array of numerous essential vaccinations. The Department of Health’s Extended Programme of Immunisation (EPI SA) includes (Based on birth to two years only):
| Birth | TOPV 1 (Polio), BCG (Tuberculosis) |
| 6 weeks | TOPV 2 (Polio), RV 1 (Rotavirus), PCV 1 (Pneumococcal diseases), DTap-IPV//Hib 1 (Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), inactivated polio vaccine, haemophilus influenzae type B), Hep B 1 (Hepatitis B virus (HBV)) |
| 10 weeks | DTap-IPV//Hib 2 (Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, haemophilus influenzae type B), Hep B 2 (Hepatitis B virus (HBV)) |
| 14 weeks | RV 2 (Pneumococcal diseases), DTap-IPV//Hib 3 (Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, haemophilus influenzae type B), Hep B 3 (Hepatitis B virus (HBV)) |
| 6-9 months | Measles 1 (Measles) |
| 9 months | PCV 3 (Pneumococcal diseases) |
| 12-18 months | Measles 2 (Measles) |
| 18 months | DTap-IPV//Hib 4 (Diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, haemophilus influenzae type B |
Side effects and procedures
This vaccination is easily obtained at your GP and the ideal time for pregnant women to be inoculated in between 20 and 32 weeks. The vaccination is safe for pregnant mothers, babies and anyone needing them.
Mild side effects may include redness, swelling, pain and tenderness at the area of injection, body ache, fatigue and fever. In a few instances, fussiness, vomiting or poor appetite may also occur.
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