Courtnay R Londo
United States
Research Article
Michigan Birthing Hospital Approach to Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine in an Obstetrical Population
Author(s): Fariha Hussain, Cristi A Carlton, Courtnay R Londo, Patricia A Vranesich and Bernard GonikFariha Hussain, Cristi A Carlton, Courtnay R Londo, Patricia A Vranesich and Bernard Gonik
Objective: Pertussis infections have risen exponentially in the United States with the highest incidence of morbidities and mortalities in infants less than one year of age. Although Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations have recently changed several times, current recommendations are to give tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis vaccine during each pregnancy to all gravidas between 27 and 36 weeks gestation or immediately postpartum. Vaccine “cocooning” of close contacts is also advocated to reduce transmission to newborns. This study was undertaken to determine Michigan birthing hospitals’ Tdap vaccination policies and practices.
Methods: A telephone survey of Michigan birthing hospital administrators was conducted May-June 2012. Statistical analysis was by Fisher exact test f.. View More»
