dTap vaccine free for all pregnant women in Alberta

From the Government of Alberta:

The Alberta government has made the dTap vaccine free for all pregnant women.

By receiving the dTap vaccine during pregnancy, expectant mothers can provide early protection to their newborns against whooping cough, also known as pertussis. Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease that can lead to pneumonia and death.

Infants are at the highest risk for whooping cough complications in their first two months, until they are old enough to be immunized. The dTap vaccine, which also protects against tetanus and diphtheria, has been proven to be safe when given during pregnancy.

“It’s important to do everything we can to ensure newborn babies are protected against whooping cough when they are at their most vulnerable. Providing this life-saving vaccine free of charge will help more expectant moms get vaccinated as our government continues to fight for the health care needs of Alberta families.” 

Pregnant women can get the dTap vaccine at an Alberta Health Services (AHS) public health clinic or at their local pharmacy. Women who wish to be immunized at a pharmacy will require a prescription.

“Getting immunized during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to protect infants against pertussis. I encourage women to get their dTap vaccine during every pregnancy.”