Double boost for maternal vaccination against infectious disease
Two new studies have reinforced the safety and benefits of vaccination during pregnancy, particularly for influenza, pertussis and COVID-19.
Australian research found that receiving influenza and pertussis vaccines on the same day during pregnancy does not increase the risk of adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight or complications for mother and baby. These findings help address concerns around administering multiple vaccines at once and support more flexible vaccination opportunities during pregnancy.
A separate US study highlighted the protective effect of maternal COVID-19 vaccination, showing it can reduce the risk of infection and hospitalisation in infants under six months of age. Protection was strongest when vaccination occurred during the third trimester, reinforcing the importance of timing during pregnancy.
Together, these findings provide strong evidence that maternal vaccination is both safe and an effective way to protect newborns, who are too young to be vaccinated themselves.