Vaccinations During Pregnancy 🤰💉

A Complete Guide for Pregnant Women in Zambia 🇿🇲

Vaccination during pregnancy is a key part of antenatal care.

It protects both the mother and the baby and helps prevent serious, life-threatening infections.

🇿🇲 Vaccination Protocol During Pregnancy in Zambia

Zambia follows WHO / EPI-based guidelines, focusing on early protection, especially against maternal and neonatal tetanus.

1️⃣ Tetanus (TT / Td) – MOST IMPORTANT

🔹 Which vaccine?

TT or Td

(Tdap is not routinely available in the public sector)

🔹 When?

✔ If the woman is NOT adequately vaccinated or her history is unknown:

First dose (TT1): at the first antenatal visit (ANY trimester)

Second dose (TT2): at least 4 weeks later

➡️ These two doses protect both the mother and the newborn in the current pregnancy.

✔ If the woman received ≥2 doses in previous pregnancies:

One booster dose during pregnancy is usually sufficient

🔔 Important note:

Although some international guidelines mention 27–36 weeks (mainly when Tdap is used),

👉 In Zambia, tetanus vaccination should NOT be delayed. Early vaccination is recommended.

2️⃣ Influenza (Flu Vaccine)

🗓 When?

Any trimester, once available

✅ Why?

• Pregnancy increases the risk of severe flu
• Reduces complications such as pneumonia and hospitalization
• Protects the newborn after birth

3️⃣ COVID-19 Vaccine

🗓 When?

Any trimester (including booster doses if indicated)

✅ Why?

Reduces risk of severe illness, ICU admission, and preterm birth

Safe for both mother and baby

4️⃣ Hepatitis B Vaccine

🗓 When?

If not previously vaccinated or if the mother is at higher risk

💉 Schedule:

0 – 1 – 6 months (can be started during pregnancy)

✅ Why?

Prevents maternal infection

Reduces mother-to-child transmission

❌ Vaccines NOT Given During Pregnancy

(Live vaccines)

🚫 Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

🚫 Varicella (Chickenpox)

➡️ These should be given before pregnancy or after delivery

🟢 Key Take-Home Messages

✔ Vaccines in pregnancy are safe and evidence-based

✔ They protect two lives at the same time

✔ In Zambia, early tetanus vaccination is essential

✔ Always follow individual medical advice during antenatal visits

📌 Every pregnancy is unique. Discuss your vaccination plan with your healthcare provider.

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