Maternal immunization has the potential to reduce neonatal deaths caused by vaccine-preventable infectious diseases. Elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus from many countries illustrates the potential benefits of maternal immunization as a strategy to decrease neonatal mortality caused by vaccine-preventable infections. Many countries in South and Southeast Asia have high cases of neonatal deaths, which were historically attributed to vaccine-preventable infections. Still, these countries vary in recommendations regarding immunization of pregnant women. We reviewed the current recommendations for the use of tetanus toxoid, tetanus-diphtheria, or tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccines for immunization of pregnant women. In addition to protection against tetanus and diphtheria, administration of the Tdap vaccine to pregnant women could help protect neonates against pertussis until they can receive the first two vaccine doses of their primary course. Vaccination against seasonal influenza is also recommended in many countries worldwide for pregnant women as influenza can pose health risks for the mother-fetus unit and the infant. Despite the recognized benefit of influenza vaccination for pregnant women, only some South and Southeast Asian countries have implemented its recommendation. The success of maternal tetanus vaccination has kindled the interest in vaccines that can be safely administered during pregnancy. Future availability of vaccines against respiratory syncytial virus and group B streptococcus, for use in pregnant women, could help prevent neonatal infections, especially in regions where diseases are less controlled. Communicating the body of evidence that supports maternal immunization to obstetricians is key for achieving optimal vaccination coverage to ensure protection of neonates. The current review aims to create awareness about the existing and potential benefits of maternal immunization in South and Southeast Asia.
Aplastic anaemia with pregnancy is rarely encountered. Management of aplastic anaemia in pregnancy primarily involves a multidisciplinary approach offering supportive care. Our case was challenging as she developed aplastic anaemia during the third trimester and had refractory thrombocytopenia. She required platelet transfusions on a daily basis for few weeks as well as packed red blood cells frequently. Her leucocyte count was low initially but improved quickly unlike the platelet counts. Initiation of immunosuppressive therapy turned out to be beneficial and culminated in a good outcome. After starting immunosuppressive therapy with eltrombopag and cyclosporine she drifted through term and achieved a normal vaginal delivery.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.