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Alabama

Pregnancy, birth and the first year in Alabama, in 14 topics: from who runs maternal and child health to what happens at your newborn's screening.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations for Pregnant Women

  • Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Pregnant women are advised to receive the inactivated influenza vaccine during flu season, regardless of the trimester. This protects both mother and baby from flu-related complications.
  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: It is recommended that pregnant women receive a Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy, preferably between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation, to protect the newborn from pertussis (whooping cough).

COVID-19 Vaccine: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant women receive the COVID-19 vaccine to protect against severe illness. Vaccination during pregnancy can also provide antibodies to the baby.

Vaccinations for Infants

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) follows the CDC's immunization schedule for infants, which includes:

  • Hepatitis B: Administered shortly after birth, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Acellular Pertussis (DTaP): Given at 2, 4, and 6 months, with additional doses later in childhood.
  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Administered at 2, 4, and 6 months, depending on the vaccine type.
  • Polio (IPV): Given at 2 and 4 months, with additional doses later in childhood.
  • Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13): Administered at 2, 4, and 6 months.
  • Rotavirus: Given at 2 and 4 months, or 2, 4, and 6 months, depending on the vaccine type.
  • COVID-19: Infants aged 6 months and older are recommended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

These vaccines are typically available through pediatricians, family healthcare providers, and local health departments. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program in Alabama offers vaccines at no cost to eligible children who might not otherwise be vaccinated due to inability to pay.

For personalized advice and to ensure timely vaccinations, pregnant women and parents in Alabama should consult with their healthcare providers or contact the Alabama Department of Public Health's Immunization Division.

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