Which vaccine is recommended for a pregnant woman to receive to protect her newborn from pertussis?

The recommended vaccine for a pregnant woman to receive to protect her newborn from pertussis is Tdap. This vaccine is specifically designed to provide immunity against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). The timing of the immunization is crucial; it is typically recommended to be administered during the third trimester, ideally between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. This ensures that the mother develops sufficient antibodies that can be transferred to the newborn, offering them protection in the months following birth before they are eligible to receive their own vaccinations against pertussis.

Receiving Tdap during pregnancy not only protects the mother but also significantly reduces the risk of the infant contracting pertussis, which can be a very serious respiratory illness in young children. The practice aligns with guidelines from health authorities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) that advocate for Tdap vaccination in pregnant women to enhance neonatal immunity.