Riley's Story

His condition worsened, devastating his parents Catherine and Greg. Despite best care, Riley passed away in his parents’ arms. Catherine and Greg, determined to make change happen, founded the campaign Light for Riley, shining a light on the dangers of whooping cough and importance of vaccination. Only weeks after Riley died in 2015, whooping cough vaccines became free and recommended for all pregnant Australians.

The disease and protection:

Definition: Whooping cough is a bacterial infection caused by bordetella pertussis.

Symptoms: Sneezing, blocked nose, raised temperature, coughing that becomes persistent and may have a ‘whoop’ sound and may lead to vomiting.

Prevention: Vaccination is highly effective against whooping cough and offers the best protection. Vaccination is recommended for infants, young children, adolescents and during all pregnancies. Adult boosters are recommended every ten years for full immunity and especially for those in special risk groups, those in contact with babies and young children including early childhood educators, carers and healthcare workers.

Access: Vaccination is available through GPs, Aboriginal Medical Services, pharmacies, community health centres and immunisation clinics. Vaccination is free for those eligible through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) including babies from two months, adolescents, pregnant women (20 – 32 weeks).

Whooping cough is a vaccine preventable disease.