1. Influenza (Swine Flu) :
The flu poses significant risks, particularly for pregnant women and young children. During pregnancy, a woman’s immune system, heart, and lung functions undergo changes that increase the likelihood of severe illness and complications from the flu compared to non-pregnant women. Additionally, pregnant women with the flu face higher risks of serious issues for their unborn child, such as premature labor and delivery. Fortunately, getting a flu shot is an easy way for pregnant women to protect both themselves and their babies. The vaccine prompts the body to produce antibodies that can be transferred to the unborn baby, offering protection from the flu for up to six months after birth.
This is crucial since infants do not start receiving flu vaccinations until they are six months old, yet they are highly susceptible to severe complications from the virus. Each year, around 20,000 children under five are hospitalized, and about 100 die from flu-related complications. The flu vaccine is safe for both pregnant women and their babies and can be administered during any trimester.
When to take : Usually can take from 12 to 14 weeks – Single dose.
2. Pertussis(Whooping cough) :
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a serious illness, particularly for infants. Some babies experience severe coughing fits and struggle to breathe, while others may even stop breathing altogether. Approximately half of infants under 12 months who contract whooping cough require hospitalization. The good news is that you can help safeguard your baby. By receiving the whooping cough vaccine (also known as Tdap or Boostrix) during pregnancy, you will pass antibodies to your baby, providing protection from the moment they are born until they receive their own whooping cough vaccine at 2 months of age. It is both safe and crucial to get vaccinated during any trimester of pregnancy.
When to take : Usually can take after 28 weeks -Single dose.
3. Tetanus Toxoid – TT vaccine :
Tetanus is a serious bacterial disease caused by the toxin from the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The bacteria can enter the body through any open wound, including minor scrapes or cuts, but are more likely to cause infection through deep puncture wounds such as bites, cuts, burns, or ulcers. Tetanus affects the nervous system and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Neonatal tetanus primarily affects newborns, often resulting from an infection at the unhealed umbilical stump, particularly when the umbilical cord is cut with a non-sterile instrument. To enhance the maternal antibody response and ensure passive antibody transfer to the infant, national immunization guidelines recommend that pregnant women receive the tetanus vaccine. It is advised to get two doses of the tetanus toxoid vaccine during pregnancy.
When to take : Around 16 weeks, 2 doses 1 month apart
Note: Above article is for information purpose only. Please always consult your doctor before taking any vaccine.
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