The Ministry of Health of Peru announced on Apr. 29 that it is intensifying efforts to protect the health of pregnant women and their babies by promoting compliance with the national vaccination schedule during pregnancy, as part of Vaccination Week in the Americas.
This initiative aims to prevent diseases that could endanger both mothers and newborns by encouraging timely immunization. The ministry said vaccinations for pregnant women are safe, free, and essential for preventing illnesses that may pose risks during gestation and after birth.
According to the ministry, the influenza vaccine can be administered at any stage of pregnancy, providing protection against severe respiratory complications and granting immunity to infants in their first months. The tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine should be given from week 20 onward—ideally between weeks 27 and 36—to shield newborns from whooping cough. The hepatitis B vaccine can also be provided during pregnancy if needed; it is recommended between weeks 27 and 32 for those not previously immunized but may be administered at any time if there is risk exposure.
The ministry called on all pregnant women to visit their nearest health center for guidance and completion of their vaccination schedules as part of routine prenatal care. These vaccines are included in Peru’s National Vaccination Schedule and are available free of charge at all health facilities nationwide.
During Vaccination Week in the Americas, health teams are conducting intensive outreach activities such as home visits and information campaigns aimed at increasing access among expectant mothers. The ministry also emphasized that vaccinations continue throughout the year: “Vaccines are free and available at all health facilities across the country.”
