With all the shots your baby needs, it can sometimes be hard for new parents to keep up with their own. Here's what you need to know about where and how to stay on top of your own vaccines while also sticking to your baby's immunization schedule.
What vaccines do new parents need?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that all women get a tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine as well as a flu vaccine during every pregnancy. But if you didn't get either of these vaccines for any reason while you were expecting — say you were pregnant outside of flu season — you can get your shots after baby's arrival.
ACOG also recommends that the three COVID-19 vaccines not be withheld from pregnant people, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says pregnant people may choose to be vaccinated. If you’re pregnant and have concerns about whether you should receive the COVID-19 vaccine, talk to your practitioner — ultimately, it's your decision.
The CDC recommends that all of a new baby's family members and caregivers, including parents, siblings, grandparents and nannies, should make sure they're up-to-date on their vaccines, especially the Tdap and flu vaccines. And the CDC also recommends that all individuals 12 years and older get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available to them.
Newborn immune systems aren't fully developed, so they're particularly vulnerable to infections. Staying up-to-date on your own vaccinations can help keep your newborn baby safe through "cocooning," which simply means surrounding your newborn in a circle of protection.
Where can parents get the vaccines they need?
For the flu shot, you can ask your OB/GYN, primary-care doctor, family physician, a registered nurse or even your child's pediatrician (who may provide vaccines to parents as well as kids). Some clinics, pharmacies, local health departments, supermarkets, health clubs and workplaces also offer the flu vaccine.
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For other shots, like the MMR, varicella or Tdap vaccines, your primary care doctor or family physician may be your best bet, since they're the most likely to have all the vaccines on hand (though your OB/GYN is also likely to carry Tdap). They also keep track of your health from year to year, so they'll know whether you actually need a shot or if you're already covered. And to find a COVID-19 vaccine near you, visit Vaccines.gov.
If you do get a vaccine from an OB/GYN, don't forget to tell your primary care doctor or family physician during your next visit so it can be recorded in your medical chart.
Do you have to ask for vaccines in advance?
It's a good idea, since different doctors keep different shots in stock. Again, primary care and family doctors are more likely to keep most shots on hand. OB/GYNs are less likely to have certain vaccines that don't apply to their specialty.
If you're going to the doctor (any doctor) to get a shot, it's best to let the receptionist know when you make the appointment so the vaccine can be ordered if necessary. That way you can avoid having to make another trip if they don't have the shot you need on hand.
Does insurance cover shots?
Yes! Insurance plans can be confusing, but one thing they pretty much all agree on is vaccine coverage. Virtually all plans pay for vaccines, as long as they're recommended for you by the CDC. Most insurance plans do not charge a co-pay or coinsurance when the vaccines are provided by an in-network provider.
The COVID-19 vaccine is available to everyone in the U.S. free of charge, regardless of immigration status or whether or not you have health insurance.
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