There are three recommended maternal vaccines during pregnancy – influenza, pertussis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine.
Offering vaccine, or recommending vaccination, by an antenatal care provider is one of the strongest predictors of vaccine uptake by pregnant women and should be a routine part of antenatal care.
Influenza vaccination during pregnancy has been shown to be safe and effective. Vaccination during pregnancy protects pregnant women from influenza and its complications in pregnancy.
It is also the best way to protect newborns against influenza during the critical early months of life.
Influenza vaccine can be given at any stage of pregnancy and can be given at the same time as pertussis vaccination (between 20 and 32 weeks). The maternal RSV vaccine is recommended year-round between 28 to 36 weeks gestation. The influenza vaccine may be given earlier and should not be delayed.
Ensure the influenza vaccine is recorded on the woman’s antenatal record card and AIR.
Women who receive influenza vaccine before becoming pregnant should be revaccinated during pregnancy to protect the unborn infant.
Refer to the digital Australian Immunisation Handbook for more information.
Read the NCIRS Vaccine recommendations for pregnant women – a guide for health professionals