Czy whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy is it necessary? What are the benefits and side effects can occur? Many future mothers wonder whether it is worth making a decision about whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy. This article will tell you more about its impact on the health of both mother and child.
Vaccination against whooping cough during pregnancy protects not only the mother, but also her child during the crucial first months of life. We will discuss when is the best time to get vaccinated, what the side effects may be, the price and availability of the vaccine financed by the National Health Fund. We invite you to read the text to gain knowledge that will help you make the best decision for your health and that of your child.
Free program starts Whooping cough vaccinations during pregnancy
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is bacterial disease, resembling chronic bronchitis with a strong, intermittent cough. This disease is caused by bacteria Bordetella pertussis, which can lead to serious complications. The youngest are at particular risk – infants in their first six months of life, who cannot yet be fully vaccinated against whooping cough at this time.
Vaccination against whooping cough during pregnancy helps to produce antibodies, which pass to the baby through the placenta, providing protection from the first days of the baby's life.
Since October 15, 2024, the Ministry of Health has enabled pregnant women to receive free vaccinations, financed by the National Health Fund, which significantly facilitates access to this form of health care. [1]
When best to do whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy?
Vaccination with preparations such as: boostrix, Czy Adacel or their derivatives with a polio component – recommended for all women between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This is the optimal period that guarantees the highest level of protection for the newborn after birth. In some cases, especially when there is a risk that the pregnancy will end in premature birth, the doctor may recommend vaccination after the twentieth week of pregnancy. [2]
The decision on the vaccination date depends on the doctor supervising the pregnancy and on health of the mother and fetus. If the expectant mother decides to get vaccinated, she should make an appointment with her doctor. primary care physician, who will assess your health and qualify you for vaccination. The process is simple and does not require additional referrals or certificates.
Whooping cough vaccination during pregnancy: Calculator and availability
Until now, the pertussis vaccination during pregnancy was subject to a fee. Its price could be a barrier for many families. However, from October 15, 2024 The vaccination is financed by the National Health Fund [2]. Thanks to this, women can receive it no additional cost. This is especially important because whooping cough is a serious threat, and vaccination during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of the disease in newborns.
To get vaccinated against whooping cough, all you need to do is go to a primary care clinic where you have submitted a declaration to a primary care physician. The physician will qualify you for vaccination, and the vaccine will be ordered by the clinic at the District Sanitary and Epidemiological Station.
Whooping cough vaccination in pregnancy – target groups for free vaccination in a single-dose regimen:
- Pregnant women between 27 and 36 weeks – additional certificates and referrals are not required;
- Pregnant women at risk of premature birth after the 20th week of pregnancy – the patient is referred for vaccination by the primary care physician who is supervising the pregnancy.