Tdap in Pregnancy

What is pertussis (whooping cough)?

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a contagious lung infection. Babies under eight weeks of age, who have not started their routine vaccines, are at the highest risk for severe disease and even death.

Why should pregnant people be offered Tdap vaccine?

Tdap vaccination in pregnancy provides protection to babies until they can receive the vaccine themselves at two months of age. Studies have shown that nine out of 10 babies under three months old are protected when pertussis vaccine was given during pregnancy.

It is recommended that all pregnant people receive the Tdap vaccine with every pregnancy.

Is Tdap vaccine safe during pregnancy?

The vaccine is safe for the pregnant person and for the fetus.

The most common side effects are injection site pain redness or swelling. Other less common side effects are fever, chills and headache.

When should pregnant people receive the Tdap vaccine?

Tdap vaccine is ideally given between 27 and 32-weeks’ gestation. Tdap vaccine is safe to be given from 13 weeks’ gestation up to the time of delivery.

Where can I get the Tdap vaccine?

Contact your local public health nurse about receiving the Tdap vaccine in pregnancy.

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Last updated: 2022-03-08