Vaccination for pertussis during pregnancy

When is it a good idea to get vaccinated for pertussis during pregnancy?

Vaccination for pertussis during pregnancy is safe and does not lead to complications for the developing baby. It is recommended in III. trimester, preferably before the 36th. week of pregnancy. It is a combination vaccine- against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. Unfortunately, this vaccine, unlike the flu vaccination during pregnancy, is not reimbursed by the National Health Service. Nevertheless, gynecologists recommend them for every pregnant woman between 27. a 36. week. Currently, the cost of the vaccine is about PLN 130. You can get vaccinated at your local clinic with your family doctor or gynecologist.

Advantages of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy

Pertussis vaccination is recommended during pregnancy for all moms-to-be. In addition to protecting the mother, also because of the protection it provides to the newborn in the first weeks of its life. This is because a child can only be vaccinated against whooping cough after the age of 6. week of life. In turn, whooping cough infection in a newborn can carry serious consequences, which is why it is so important to ensure proper protection.

Pertussis – what is the disease?

Pertussis is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by bacteria. It spreads mainly by the droplet route. It affects the respiratory system, and its most common symptom is a chronic cough. Pertussis is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, who can develop complications such as shortness of breath, pneumonia and even death. Therefore, it is very important to so-called. cocoon strategy, that is, vaccinating those in contact with young children to protect them from infection.