Antenatal immunisation with Influenza and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccines are strongly recommended in every pregnancy to protect both the mother and baby from disease and its complications. Evidence around the timing of pertussis immunisation in pregnancy has recently been reviewed and it is now recommended that a pertussis containing vaccine be administered between 20 and 32 weeks of the pregnancy. Immunisation is provided free to all pregnant women through the National Immunisation Program.

For further information about maternal vaccination recommendations visit our reference page MVEC: Maternal vaccination during pregnancy