Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis is a bacterial infection (spread through sneezing and coughing) which causes swelling and narrowing of the breathing passages and a severe, violent, and rapid cough, which can last for months. Pertussis is most severe in infants under 6 months of age, particularly if premature. Complications of pertussis include pneumonia, seizures and sudden death. A combination Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis vaccine is generally given at 2, 4, 6 and 15 months, with a booster at 4 - 5 years.
Because infants under 6 months are most at risk for serious complications, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that ALL expectant mothers be vaccinated against pertussis during their third trimester of EACH pregnancy. Vaccinating an expectant mother against pertussis not only protects her newborn from exposure to pertussis after birth, it also passes on important antibodies to her baby before birth. Others who will be around the infant - father, siblings, grandparents, other family members and caregivers - are also encouraged to check with their physician to make sure they are up to date on vaccine protection against pertussis. It takes two weeks to establish immunity against the pertussis bacteria, so we recommend these vaccinations take place during the last trimester of pregnancy.
Influenza
Babies under 6 months of age are at a higher risk for serious complications from influenza, but are too young to receive the flu vaccine. Thus, it is very important for parents, family members, and caregivers to be vaccinated against influenza to help form a protective "cocoon" against the flu for newborns and young infants. The seasonal flu shot is safe for both pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Studies show that vaccinating pregnant women can pass along antibodies to help protect her baby from influenza after birth. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends an annual flu vaccine for all children 6 months and older.