Boostrix vaccine for pregnant women
Boostrix (Tdap) vaccine remains subsidised for pregnant women
Pregnant women are eligible for subsidised pertussis vaccine from 28 weeks gestation. Immunisation of pregnant women is important because it provides passive immunity to the infant during their first 6 months of life, ie the time before they have received their full course of infant immunisations. There is a high-risk of pertussis in this age group, with 90% of pertussis-related deaths occurring prior to 6 months of age. The Tdap vaccination is considered safe during pregnancy and is best given between 28-38 weeks gestation so there is enough time for passive transfer of immunity to occur before birth.
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