College pushes for free pertussis vax for all Queenslanders as cases surge
Infections have soared past the record numbers last year.
More than 2700 pertussis cases in Queensland this year have prompted the RACGP to call for free vaccinations for all its residents.
It says infections in parts of the state have reportedly jumped by 153% compared with 2024, which was a record-breaking year for pertussis nationally.
“At a time of high cost-of-living pressures, the cost of vaccinations can act as a strong disincentive for many families,” said RACGP Queensland chair Dr Cathryn Hester.
“For those not covered by the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the cost of a combined diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine can range from $50 to $60 per dose.
