Covid-19 vaccine and pregnancy has been a topic of interest to many staff and the women they are caring for.
Therefore, I’d like to share with you the Commonwealth Government announcement that people who are pregnant aged 16 years and over are now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination.
Key points from this announcement:
- People who are pregnant should be offered Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine at any stage of pregnancy.
- People who are pregnant are encouraged to get vaccinated at their doctor’s clinic or health care provider to support people to discuss their health and any questions they have.
- People who are pregnant can also get vaccinated at Victoria’s vaccination centres effective from Monday 26 July 2021.
- To provide evidence of eligibility, please read the Victorian COVID-19 vaccine – Evidence of eligibility document.
- People who are pregnant can book via the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 to book their appointment or book via the online booking portal.
- To support any decision-making, vaccination providers and people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy are encouraged to refer to the Australian Government’s Shared decision making guide for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy.
Updated vaccine safety advice provided by the Australian Government for people who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding:
- Global surveillance data from large numbers of people who are pregnant have not found any significant safety concerns with COVID-19 vaccines given at any stage of pregnancy. There is also evidence of antibody in blood and breastmilk, which may offer protection to infants through passive immunity.
- People who are pregnant who contract COVID-19 have an increased risk of severe illness and adverse pregnancy outcomes. COVID-19 during pregnancy also increases the risk of complications for the baby.
- International data has indicated mRNA vaccines – including Pfizer – are safe to be given at any stage during pregnancy and are also suitable for people who are breastfeeding.
- The Australian Government’s advice remains unchanged for people trying to become pregnant and breastfeeding: People who are trying to become pregnant do not need to delay vaccination or avoid becoming pregnant after vaccination. If you are breastfeeding, you can have the Pfizer vaccine. You do not need to stop breastfeeding after vaccination.
Regards,
Shane Crowe
Executive Director Nursing & Midwifery