The COVID-19 vaccine is being rolled out and pregnant and breastfeeding people understandably have questions about getting it. Two teratogen information specialists (experts in exposures in pregnancy and breastfeeding) join host Chris Stallman, CGC to address questions the MotherToBaby service is getting regarding COVID-19 vaccine exposure in pregnancy and while breastfeeding. …
The Baby Blog: Vaccine Preventable Illnesses
Measles, Mumps, Rubella and the MMR Vaccine
This sheet is about exposure to measles, mumps, rubella, and the MMR vaccine in a pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What are measles, mumps, and rubella? Measles (rubeola), mumps, and rubella (German measles, three-day measles) are viral diseases that are primarily spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. The measles virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an …
Ho, Ho, Ho, Who Wouldn’t Go? Holiday Travel in the Time of COVID-19
Chelsea’s chat came through late on a Wednesday afternoon: “Hi, I’m 23 weeks pregnant and have plans to visit my family in a different state this holiday season. My sister just had a baby and is breastfeeding, and my grandparents will also be there, so I want to be as safe as possible with COVID-19 still spreading. What do you think I should do?” With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa all quickly approaching, questions like this are coming into our chat service more frequently. …
Meningococcal Disease (Bacterial Meningitis) Vaccine
This sheet talks about exposure to meningococcal vaccine in a pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This information should not take the place of medical care and advice from your healthcare provider. What is meningitis? Meningitis is an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungus, or parasites. The seriousness of the illness and treatment differs depending on the type of meningitis. Symptoms of meningococcal disease can …
Pregnant & the Flu Vaccine? Why It’s More Important Than Ever during the COVID-19 Pandemic
“I just found out I am pregnant. I’ve heard that it is really important to get the flu shot this fall, but is it still OK now that I am pregnant?” The woman on the other end of the phone line sounded cautious and concerned. I told her, “I’m so glad you called to ask about this. The influenza vaccination may be even more important for pregnant women. The coronavirus pandemic has given us a lot to worry about without adding influenza infections to the mix. Let …
