Recommendations on use of Tetanus Toxoid, reduced Diphtheria Toxoid
and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine (Tdap) for Pregnant Women
Date of ACIP vote: October 24, 2012
Date of posting of provisional recommendations: December 6, 2012
On October 24, 2012, the ACIP voted to recommend tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) for pregnant women with every pregnancy irrespective of previous Tdap history.
Updated recommendation
ACIP recommends that providers of prenatal care implement a Tdap immunization program for all pregnant women. Health-care personnel should administer a dose of Tdap during each pregnancy irrespective of the patient’s prior history of receiving Tdap.
Guidance on use
To maximize the maternal antibody response and passive antibody transfer to the infant, optimal timing for Tdap administration is between 27 and 36 weeks gestation. For women not previously vaccinated with Tdap, if Tdap is not administered during pregnancy, Tdap should be administered immediately postpartum.
