The CDC has changed its whooping cough (pertussis) booster vaccine recommendations for pregnant women. It is now recommended that pregnant women receive the Tdap vaccine while pregnant, if the woman has not been previously immunized. For the past few years, it has been recommended that mothers receive the vaccine in the postpartum period if she has not received one before. It has also been recommended that family members receive one too if never vaccinated with the booster dose. Surrounding the baby with vaccinated family members creates a shield or “cocoon” of protection around the baby. Most newborns catch whooping cough from a family member.
By giving the vaccine to mothers while pregnant, she will make antibodies which will transfer to the baby through the placenta. This will give the baby protection during the first several months of life.
As before, if mom is unvaccinated and the vaccine is not given during pregnancy, it should be given in the postpartum period. It is still recommended that all caregivers/family members of the baby receive one if they have not already.
The recommendations of the ACIP have to be approved by the CDC to become official and then will be published.
Updated October 25, 2011
