Maryland

In Maryland, pregnant women and children have access to a range of vaccinations that are crucial for protecting their health. These vaccines are available through various healthcare providers, local health departments, and community clinics.

Vaccinations for Pregnant Women
Vaccination during pregnancy is essential to safeguard both the mother and the developing baby. The following vaccines are recommended:

• Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Recommended during any trimester, especially during flu season, to protect against influenza complications.
• Tdap Vaccine: Administered between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation to protect newborns from pertussis (whooping cough).
• COVID-19 Vaccine: mRNA vaccines (Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech) are safe before and during pregnancy, with no increased risk for complications like miscarriage or birth defects.
• RSV Vaccine: Approved for pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation to protect newborns from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

For more detailed information, refer to the CDC's guidelines on vaccines during pregnancy.

Vaccinations for Children

Maryland follows the CDC-recommended immunization schedule for children, which includes

• DTaP: Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• MMR: Measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Varicella: Chickenpox.
• Polio (IPV)
• Hepatitis B
• Hib: Haemophilus influenzae type b
• PCV: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
• Rotavirus
• Influenza: Annually for children 6 months and older.
• COVID-19: Authorized for children 6 months and older.

Children attending school or childcare in Maryland must meet specific vaccination requirements. Details can be found in the Maryland Department of Health's immunization requirements.

Where to get vaccinated or vaccination support
In Maryland, pregnant women and children can access vaccination services through various local health departments and clinics. Here are some resources to assist you:

Prince George's County Health Department – Immunizations Program: Provides routine vaccinations for children and young adults aged 2 months to 18 years, especially for those with limited or no health insurance.

Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services – Immunization Program: Offers immunizations for children and provides information to medical providers, WIC providers, child care providers, schools, and community groups.

Local Health Departments: Offer immunization clinics for eligible children, often through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides free vaccines to children under 19 who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicaid.

MarylandVax.org: An online resource to locate vaccination clinics across the state.

Healthcare Providers: Pediatricians and obstetricians offer routine vaccinations during scheduled visits.

Pharmacies and Urgent Care Centers: Many provide vaccinations for both adults and children.

Baltimore City Health Department – Immunization Program: Provides immunization services for children and adults, including pregnant women.
Contact: 410-396-4454

Baltimore County Department of Health – Children and Maternal Health Services: Offers perinatal services to all pregnant women and provides information on vaccine requirements for children enrolled in preschool and school programs.

COVID-19 Vaccination for Pregnant Women: The CDC recommends that pregnant women receive the COVID-19 vaccine. It's safe to get vaccinated during pregnancy, and you can receive other vaccines, including the flu vaccine, at the same time.

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA): HRSA supports programs that provide health care to uninsured and underinsured individuals, including pregnant women and children.

It's advisable to contact these departments directly or visit their websites for the most current information on vaccine availability, scheduling, and any specific requirements. Ensuring timely vaccinations is essential for the health and well-being of both pregnant women and children.