Pertussis Vaccination in GP Practice

📊 New Data: UKHSA reports 1,888 pertussis cases in April 2024.
👶 High Risk: Infants are at high risk of severe complications; 8 infants died in early 2024.
🤰 Vaccination Timing: Offer from week 16 of pregnancy up to delivery; also available up to 8 weeks post-delivery.
🗓️ Routine Immunisation: Part of NHS childhood immunisation programme; ensure to code/record vaccinations.
🆕 Vaccine Change: ADACEL (Tdap) replaces Boostrix-IPV (dTaP/IPV) from 1 July 2024. If ADACEL isn’t available, use Boostrix-IPV.

🌐 Resources:

🏥 Responsibility: GPs must offer and record pertussis vaccinations; maternity units may also offer them.
🤝 PCN Collaboration: Work with PCNs to provide and support vaccination uptake during core and enhanced hours.
📚 Stay Informed: Utilise provided resources to stay updated on vaccination protocols and educational materials.

References:

Mohammed Rashad
Director, The Medicines Management Team

Mohammed Rashad is a pharmacist and Director at The Medicines Management Team (TMMT), an award-winning provider of pharmacy services supporting over 85 Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and 250 GP practices across the UK. He works at scale with practices and PCNs to reduce workload, improve access, and deliver key targets such as QOF. Mohammed combines clinical expertise with strategic leadership to redesign how primary care operates. He leads on digital innovation, implementing performance dashboards, optimising workflows, and using data to drive smarter decisions. His work focuses on building scalable, high-performing models that deliver measurable impact. He regularly shares practical insights on improving efficiency, workforce productivity, and patient outcomes across primary care.