[Preventing whooping cough in infants : vaccinated mother, protected newborn]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pediatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Infants under 3 months are highly vulnerable to severe pertussis complications due to their inability to be vaccinated.
• Two strategies exist: cocooning (vaccinating contacts) and antenatal immunization.
• Antenatal immunization offers passive protection to newborns via transplacental antibody transfer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effectiveness, safety, timing, and implementation of antenatal pertussis immunization.
• To provide practitioners with current recommendations and supporting data.
• To reassure expectant parents and facilitate informed decisions regarding vaccination during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on antenatal pertussis vaccination.
• Analysis of data on vaccine effectiveness and safety profiles.
• Evaluation of implementation strategies and timing of immunization.

Main Results:

• Antenatal immunization is highly effective in preventing infant pertussis.
• The strategy demonstrates a favorable safety profile for both mother and infant.
• Passive antibody transfer provides crucial protection during the first months of life.

Conclusions:

• Antenatal pertussis immunization is the preferred strategy for protecting vulnerable newborns.
• Addressing parental concerns with data on safety and effectiveness is crucial for uptake.
• Continued emphasis on current recommendations supports informed decision-making and public health goals.