Vaccine-preventable diseases in pregnancy.

In 2011, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified the reduction in vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) as one of the greatest achievements of the previous decade. During that time, several new pediatric and adult vaccines were introduced including rotavirus, quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate, herpes zoster, human papillomavirus, pneumococcal conjugate, and adult tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis. Despite the impact of immunization and its public health priority, vaccine coverage among adults in the United States remains suboptimal. Incorporation of adult immunization into routine obstetric and gynecologic care may be one innovative approach to vaccinate women. Pregnancy is a particularly vulnerable period for VPD-associated complications for both mother and baby, as demonstrated by the influenza pandemic of 2009. In addition to preventing maternal and congenital disease, maternal immunization can also provide direct fetal/infant protection via passive immunity. This article summarizes vaccine classification, specific vaccines recommended during pregnancy/postpartum, and barriers to maternal immunization.