Georgia

Vaccinations are a crucial aspect of prenatal and child healthcare, providing protection against various infectious diseases for both mothers and their children. In Georgia, several programs and resources are available to facilitate access to these essential immunizations.

Vaccinations for Pregnant Women

Vaccines administered during pregnancy safeguard both the mother and the baby by transferring immunity to the infant. The recommended vaccines include:

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Safe at any stage of pregnancy, it protects against seasonal flu. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends flu vaccination for all individuals aged six months and older, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Tdap Vaccine: Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). It is administered between 27 and 36 weeks of pregnancy to protect newborns from pertussis.
COVID-19 Vaccine: Recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women to reduce the risk of severe illness. Recent studies affirm the safety of COVID-19 vaccines during early pregnancy, indicating no increased risk of major birth defects.
RSV Vaccine: To protect newborns from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), pregnant individuals can receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This vaccine, approved by the FDA in 2023, provides immunity to the baby for the first six months, a critical period when infants are highly vulnerable to severe respiratory illnesses.

Vaccinations for Children

Routine childhood vaccinations protect against diseases such as measles, polio, and chickenpox. Key vaccines for children include:

Hepatitis B: Administered at birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): Given in a series throughout early childhood.
Polio (IPV): Administered at 2 months, 4 months, 6-18 months, and 4-6 years.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Given at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
Varicella (Chickenpox): Administered at 12-15 months and 4-6 years.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): Recommended starting at age 11-12.
For a comprehensive immunization schedule, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.

Where to Get Vaccinated or Vaccination Support in Georgia

Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH): Provides comprehensive information on immunization schedules and vaccination services. Learn More

Local Public Health Departments: Offer vaccines for children, pregnant women, and adults. Contact your nearest health department for low-cost or free vaccinations. Click here to find a center

Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program: Provides vaccines at no cost to eligible children under 19 through participating providers. Learn more

Georgia Immunization Registry (GRITS): Maintains immunization records and helps healthcare providers and families keep track of vaccinations.

Indian Health Service (IHS): Offers vaccines to eligible Native American families through tribal health organizations. For services in Georgia, click here