How to improve pertussis vaccination in pregnancy: a European expert review
Pertussis (whooping cough) remains a serious threat to infants, especially in the first months of life before they can receive their full primary vaccinations. Vaccination during pregnancy is the most effective strategy to provide early protection to newborns through passive immunity.
A recent European expert review, published in Expert Review of Vaccines, highlights both the challenges and opportunities in improving maternal pertussis immunization. Despite the proven effectiveness and safety of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy, uptake rates remain suboptimal in many countries—contributing to a resurgence of pertussis cases and preventable infant deaths.
Key findings from the review include:
- Maternal immunization is over 90% effective in preventing infant pertussis hospitalizations.
- Current Tdap vaccines, while effective, are not specifically designed for pregnancy and include unnecessary components like tetanus and diphtheria.
- A pertussis-only vaccine would help reduce vaccine burden on pregnant women and increase acceptance.
- Recombinant pertussis vaccines with improved immunogenicity may offer longer-lasting protection to infants.
- Continuous surveillance and education of healthcare providers are essential to support maternal vaccine uptake.
The review calls for urgent action across Europe to strengthen maternal immunization programs, support the development of pertussis-only vaccines, and address barriers to access and acceptance.
This publication reflects growing recognition of the role of innovative pertussis vaccines—including recombinant acellular formulations—in safeguarding the health of mothers and their newborns.
Read the full publication at Expert Review of Vaccines