Influenza and pertussis vaccine coverage in pregnancy in Australia, 2016-2021

Vaccination in pregnancy is the best strategy to reduce complications from influenza or pertussis infection in infants who are too young to be protected directly from vaccination. Pregnant women are also at risk of influenza complications preventable through antenatal vaccination. Both vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program for pregnant women in Australia, but coverage is not routinely reported nationally.

Citation:
McRae JE, McHugh L, King C, ...... Blyth CC, Danchin MH, et al. Influenza and pertussis vaccine coverage in pregnancy in Australia, 2016-2021. Med J Aust. 2023;218(11):528-41.

Keywords:
Influenza; Maternal health; Pertussis; Vaccination register; Vaccines

Abstract:
Vaccination in pregnancy is the best strategy to reduce complications from influenza or pertussis infection in infants who are too young to be protected directly from vaccination. Pregnant women are also at risk of influenza complications preventable through antenatal vaccination. Both vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program for pregnant women in Australia, but coverage is not routinely reported nationally.