Latest figures show strong uptake of whooping cough vaccine in pregnancy

摘要

UKHSA reports nearly three-quarters of women who gave birth in September were vaccinated against whooping cough during pregnancy, providing vital early protection to newborn babies.

詳細內容

Nearly three-quarters of women who gave birth in September were vaccinated, helping to give their babies vital early protection against whooping cough (pertussis). This strong uptake demonstrates the success of the maternal pertussis vaccination program.

Maternal pertussis vaccination program:

Offered to all pregnant women from 16 weeks gestation
Optimal timing: 16-32 weeks to maximize antibody transfer
Free through NHS antenatal care
Each pregnancy requires vaccination (antibodies wane over time)

Why vaccinate in pregnancy:

Newborn vulnerability: Babies cannot receive their own pertussis vaccine until 8 weeks old
Passive protection: Maternal antibodies cross the placenta to protect newborns
Critical window: First few months of life are highest risk for severe whooping cough
Proven effectiveness: 90%+ reduction in infant whooping cough cases

Whooping cough risks for infants:

Severe, prolonged coughing (“whooping” sound)
Apnea (breathing stops)
Pneumonia
Seizures
Brain damage
Death (particularly in very young infants)

73% coverage significance: While this represents good uptake, there remains room for improvement to reach the 75% national target and protect more babies. Every vaccinated mother means another infant protected during their most vulnerable weeks.

Barriers addressed:

Misconceptions about vaccine safety in pregnancy
Missed antenatal appointments
Lack of awareness about program
Access issues in some communities

Public health impact: Since the maternal pertussis program began in 2012, there has been a dramatic reduction in infant whooping cough cases and deaths. The program is a key pillar of infant protection strategy, complementing the routine childhood immunization schedule.

UKHSA encourages all pregnant women to accept the whooping cough vaccine when offered during antenatal care to give their babies the best protection from birth.

摘要

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