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The vaccine against whooping cough is known as pertussis vaccine but is usually given combined with tetanus and diphtheria as DTaP vaccine (Diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis).
It is recommended to be given as a course of five, at the following ages; 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months and 4-6 years.
The CDC has recently recommended the use of a further shot at 11-12 years of age, of Tdap vaccine in place of the previously recommended Td (tetanus and low dose diphtheria). Tdap contains pertussis antigens sufficient to boost immunity in those who have had the recommended childhood DTaP series. If Td has already been given, then Tdap can be given in addition, ideally with a five year gap, but straight away if there is going to be benefit. One of the two Tdap vaccines (Adacel) is licensed for 11 to 64 year olds. It should be used instead of Td and advised for adults who are likely to transmit pertussis to infants of 12 months and under, ie parents, health care workers, those anticipating pregnancy. Boostrix is the Tdap licensed for 10-18 year olds. There are slight differences but not of practical importance. There is no pertussis vaccine approved for 7-10 year olds, but this should not prevent unimmunized children of this age being given vaccine if they need it.