FOLLOWING the death of a four-week-old baby girl on the North Coast from whooping cough, NSW Health is urging all new parents, grandparents and any other adults who are around infants to get vaccinated by their GP.

Letters are being prepared for new parents advising them of the arrangements for free vaccines.

Adults are also being warned to keep an eye out for the symptoms of whooping cough in young children, which could include a runny nose, tiredness and sometimes a mild fever.

Australian Medical Association President Dr Brian Morton said the effectiveness of the vaccination depends on the number of people immunised.

“Mass immunisation is one of the most effective public health measures ever implemented and has seen the eradication of several deadly diseases. Unfortunately, when immunisation levels drop, diseases such as polio, whooping cough and measles emerge again,” he said.

“Studies of vaccination effects show that serious adverse side effects are very rare. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks.”

Registered Nurse at Lake Cathie Medical Centre Leonie Morris agreed that anyone in contact with small babies or children should consider immunisation.

“I know there’s some controversy about this issue but really we’ve got a very responsible immunisation program. I can’t stress enough how important it is to immunise children,” she said.

“Anyone thinking about becoming pregnant should also get their whooping cough status checked.”

RN at Camden Haven Medical Centre Michelle Butler said any concerned adults should contact their GP for further advice.