FAQ – Special Situations (Pregnancy, Travel, Immunocompromised)
Which vaccines are recommended during pregnancy?
In general, most pregnant people should be get:
- Flu vaccine (seasonal)
- COVID-19 vaccine (as recommended for the season)
- Tdap (to protect the newborn from whooping cough)
- RSV vaccine during the recommended gestational window, if eligible and in season
Your prenatal provider can also recommend other vaccines based on risk, medical conditions, or exposure (for example, hepatitis B, if you’re not already protected or are at increased risk).
The protection you get from the vaccines passes to your baby in the womb. This helps protect your baby in early life when your baby is most vulnerable to serious infections.
Getting COVID-19, flu, RSV and whooping cough shots during pregnancy is the only way to protect your baby before birth. If you didn’t get your RSV vaccine during pregnancy, make sure to ask about the RSV immunization for your baby when you deliver.
When should I get Tdap during pregnancy?
Tdap is recommended during each pregnancy, ideally in the early part of the third trimester (commonly 27–36 weeks) so protective antibodies pass to the baby before birth.
Should I get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, and when?
If you are pregnant during RSV season and eligible, RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) is typically recommended at 32–36 weeks of pregnancy to help protect the newborn after birth. If you have questions about timing or eligibility, ask your prenatal provider or contact the Immunization Program for help.
Can I get flu and COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy?
Yes. Flu and COVID-19 vaccination are recommended for pregnant people because pregnancy can increase risk of severe respiratory illness. Your provider can advise you on the best timing for your situation.
If I got an RSV vaccine in pregnancy, does my baby still need protection after birth?
Sometimes. Newborn RSV protection can come from maternal RSV vaccination or an infant preventive antibody (often used for infants who did not receive protection through pregnancy vaccination, or when protection timing was too close to delivery). Your baby’s clinician can advise what is recommended based on timing and infant risk factors.
Is it safe to get vaccinated while breastfeeding?
In general, routine vaccines are considered safe during breastfeeding. If a vaccine is needed, breastfeeding is rarely a reason to delay it. For a small number of vaccines used in special circumstances (like certain travel vaccines), your clinician can help weigh risks and benefits.
What if I’m postpartum and I missed vaccines during pregnancy?
Postpartum is a good time to catch up. Your provider may recommend vaccines you missed in pregnancy, plus any routine vaccines you are due for. If you are unsure what you need, bring any records you have and ask your clinician, or contact the Immunization Program.
I’m traveling internationally. When should I plan vaccines?
Plan early. Many travel vaccines are most effective when given several weeks before travel, and some require more than one dose. A travel visit also helps confirm you are up to date on routine vaccines.
What if my destination requires yellow fever vaccine?
Yellow fever vaccine is not offered everywhere and may require a specialized travel clinic or designated provider. If you need yellow fever vaccine, start planning early and contact your provider or a travel clinic. If you have difficulty finding a local option, our Immunization Program may be able to help you navigate resources.
Can I get vaccines if I am immunocompromised or on immune-suppressing medications?
Usually yes, and vaccination can be especially important. Inactivated (non-live) vaccines are generally safe for many immunocompromised people, though the immune response may be lower. Your specialist or primary care provider can advise what is recommended and when to time doses.
Are live vaccines safe for people with weakened immune systems?
Sometimes no. Live vaccines may be unsafe for some immunocompromised people, depending on the condition and medications. This is a “check with your clinician first” category.
Should family members of an immunocompromised person get vaccinated?
Yes. Keeping household members up to date on recommended vaccines helps protect the immunocompromised person by reducing the chance of bringing infections home. If someone in your household has a severely weakened immune system, check with their specialist before anyone gets a live vaccine. Please talk to your specialist or healthcare provider if a household member plans to get the following vaccines:
- Rotavirus vaccine in infants
- Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
- Live nasal spray flu vaccine (LAIV)
I had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine or ingredient. What should I do?
If you have had anaphylaxis to a previous vaccine dose or a known component, do not repeat the same vaccine until you talk with a clinician. Many people can still be vaccinated safely with an alternative product or a specialist plan (often with allergy consultation).
All FAQs on Immunizations
Ingredients and Common Concerns
School and Childcare Requirements
Side Effects and What to Do
Special Situations (Pregnancy, Travel, Immunocompromised)
Vaccine Basics and Safety
Vaccine Records and Proof for Work or School
Vaccine Schedules and Missed Doses
Where to Get Vaccinated