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Vaccine-preventable diseases in pregnancy
Geeta K Swamy1, Rebecca Garcia-Putnam
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA. geeta.swamy@duke.edu
American Journal of Perinatology
|December 29, 2012
Summary
Adult immunization coverage remains low, but integrating vaccines into obstetric care can improve protection for mothers and infants against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This approach offers passive immunity to newborns.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Immunology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) have significantly decreased due to widespread immunization efforts.
- Despite progress, adult vaccination rates in the U.S. remain below optimal levels.
- Pregnancy poses increased risks for VPDs, impacting both maternal and fetal health, as seen during the 2009 influenza pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the integration of adult immunization into routine obstetric and gynecologic care as a strategy to improve vaccine uptake.
- To review vaccine classifications and specific recommendations for pregnant and postpartum women.
- To identify existing barriers to maternal immunization.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and summary of current vaccine recommendations.
- Analysis of the benefits of maternal immunization for both mother and infant.
- Discussion of strategies to overcome barriers in adult and maternal vaccination.
Main Results:
- Maternal immunization offers protection against VPDs for both the mother and the fetus/infant through passive immunity.
- Obstetric and gynecologic settings present an opportunity to enhance adult immunization rates.
- Several barriers hinder the successful implementation of maternal immunization programs.
Conclusions:
- Integrating maternal immunization into routine obstetric care is a viable strategy to improve vaccine coverage.
- Maternal vaccination provides crucial protection against VPDs during pregnancy and infancy.
- Addressing identified barriers is essential for the successful adoption of maternal immunization.
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