title: Pertussis immunization in a high-risk postpartum population.
abstract: We provided CDC recommended postpartum tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap) immunization to medically underserved, uninsured women in Houston through a standing order protocol. From January 7-April 30, 2008, 1129 of 1570 (72%) postpartum women (93% Hispanic; 11% < or = 19 years) received Tdap before hospital discharge. Tdap uptake was 96.2% in women without self-reported contraindications. Recall of immunization history was inaccurate in 32% of unimmunized women who reported receiving antepartum immunization. Black women refused Tdap more often than other ethnicities (24% versus 8%; P=0.003). Postpartum Tdap immunization was successfully implemented in a high-risk population through a standing order protocol. Barriers to postpartum immunization include inaccurate immunization history and the need for ongoing targeted education.
authors: Center for Vaccine Awareness and Research, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States. chealy@bcm.edu
authors: C Mary
authors: CM
authors: Healy
authors: Marcia A
authors: MA
authors: Rench
authors: Luis A
authors: LA
authors: Castagnini
authors: Carol J
authors: CJ
authors: Baker
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D022681:Diphtheria-Tetanus-acellular Pertussis Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000276:immunology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008875:Middle Aged; D049590:Postpartum Period; D011247:Pregnancy; D014611:Vaccination / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014917:Whooping Cough / Q000517:prevention & control*; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D022681:Diphtheria-Tetanus-acellular Pertussis Vaccines