Vaccination during pregnancy

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Source: Can Fam Physician | Posted 4 days ago

Vaccination during pregnancy; Bozzo P, Narducci A, Einarson A;

Canadian Family Physician 57 (5), 555-7 (May 2011)

Question: One of my patients is studying to become a dental hygienist. Owing to

the program requirements, she received several vaccinations last week, including

measles-mumps-rubella, varicella, and hepatitis B (HB) vaccines, as well as a

tetanus booster. However, today a blood test confirmed that she is currently 6

weeks pregnant. What is known about the safety of these vaccines during

pregnancy, and are there any general recommendations for vaccines for women who

are planning to become pregnant or who are currently pregnant? Answer The

combination measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and the varicella vaccine are live

attenuated vaccines, and are contraindicated during pregnancy owing to

theoretical concerns. However, there is no evidence that there are increased

risks of malformations, congenital rubella syndrome, or varicella syndrome

attributable to these vaccines. The HB and tetanus vaccines are composed of

noninfectious particles or toxoids, and theoretically should cause no increased

risk to the developing fetus. In addition, limited observational data also

support no increased risk of any adverse pregnancy outcomes; consequently,

administration of the HB and tetanus vaccines might be, if indicated, considered

during pregnancy.