Your Daily Dose: Vaccination Plays an Important Role During Pregnancy

World Health Organization (WHO)
World Health Organization (WHO)Apr 26, 2026

Why It Matters

Vaccinating pregnant people safeguards both mother and child, curbing preventable disease burden and associated healthcare costs.

Key Takeaways

  • Get rubella immunity before pregnancy to prevent severe birth defects.
  • Vaccinate against whooping cough and RSV to protect newborn airways.
  • Flu and COVID‑19 shots reduce maternal illness and complications.
  • Maternal antibodies transfer to fetus, shielding baby from day one.
  • Consult healthcare provider to schedule recommended vaccines during pregnancy.

Summary

The video stresses that immunizations are a critical preventive tool for pregnant individuals and their unborn children, highlighting the altered immune landscape during gestation.

It outlines specific vaccines—rubella pre‑conception, pertussis (whooping cough) and RSV during pregnancy, plus influenza and COVID‑19—detailing how each reduces risk of severe disease for mother and newborn. Rubella infection can cause congenital anomalies; pertussis and RSV threaten newborns with narrow airways; flu and COVID‑19 increase maternal complications.

The narrator notes that maternal antibodies cross the placenta, giving the infant immediate protection, and urges viewers to “speak to your health care professional” to ensure timely vaccination.

By integrating these vaccines into prenatal care, health systems can lower neonatal morbidity, reduce hospital burdens, and improve long‑term child health outcomes, making vaccination a cost‑effective public‑health strategy.

Original Description

If you’re pregnant or thinking about it, this matters:
Vaccination during pregnancy plays an important role in protecting both mother and baby. Recommended vaccines help pass protective antibodies to your baby before birth — offering early protection and peace of mind.
Your decision makes a difference. Get vaccinated.
Learn more about World Immunization Week:

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