Supporting uptake of pertussis vaccination

Pertussis cases are rising. Recorded vaccination uptake during pregnancy is falling and is now at its lowest in seven years.

Practices are reminded of the clinical importance this vaccination offers, including to newborn babies. In line with contractual requirements, practices are to offer and provide pertussis vaccination to eligible patients, including on request, and correctly code in medical records the vaccination event regardless of where it was administered. Practices are encouraged to work within their PCNs during core and enhanced hours to provide vaccination and to work within their local systems through their vaccination lead to support uptake.