Pertussis Vaccination in Canadian Pregnant Women, 2018-2019

Objective: This study was undertaken to measure the uptake of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy in Canada and to identify sociodemographic factors associated with non-vaccination. Methods: A total of 5091 biological mothers of children born between September 2, 2018, and March 1, 2019, were interviewed about pertussis vaccination during their pregnancy. Results: Among 4607 mothers who recalled whether they had been vaccinated for pertussis, 43% had been vaccinated and 57% had not. The main reason given by mothers for not having been vaccinated was not being aware that pertussis vaccination was recommended. Factors independently associated with non -vaccination were being born outside Canada, lower household income, living in a province or territory where pertussis vaccination was not provided free of charge, having had previous live births, and having received maternity care from a midwife. Conclusion: Advice from the maternity care provider is an important driver of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy.

Automated summary

This study investigated the uptake of pertussis vaccination during pregnancy in Canada and identified sociodemographic factors associated with non-vaccination. The results showed that among the mothers surveyed, 43% were vaccinated and 57% were not. The main reason for non-vaccination was lack of awareness about the recommendation. Factors such as country of birth, household income, province or territory of residence, previous live births, and type of maternity care were independently associated with non-vaccination.