From the Guidelines
Yes, a male patient can receive the Tdap vaccine if his partner is pregnant, and it is recommended to do so to protect the newborn from pertussis. The CDC recommends that all close contacts of infants, including fathers, receive the Tdap vaccine at least two weeks before having contact with the newborn if they haven't had it previously or if it's been more than 10 years since their last dose 1. This strategy, called "cocooning," helps protect the vulnerable newborn from pertussis (whooping cough) before they can be fully vaccinated themselves. Pertussis can be life-threatening for infants, and they don't receive their first DTaP vaccine until 2 months of age. By vaccinating the father and other family members, the risk of transmitting pertussis to the baby is significantly reduced. The Tdap vaccine is safe, typically requiring just one dose for adults, and can be administered at any time during the partner's pregnancy. Some key points to consider include:
- The Tdap vaccine is recommended for all adults who have not previously received it, including those who will be in close contact with infants 1
- The vaccine can be administered at any time during the partner's pregnancy, and it is recommended to do so at least two weeks before the expected birth date
- The Tdap vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective in preventing pertussis, tetanus, and diphtheria in adults 1
- Side effects of the Tdap vaccine are generally mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or body aches. It's worth noting that the most recent guidelines from the CDC, published in 2018, recommend routine vaccination for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, including the use of Tdap vaccine in adults 1.
From the Research
Tdap Vaccine Administration
- The Tdap vaccine can be administered to adults, including males, as a single dose to replace a tetanus and diphtheria (Td) booster, as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) 2.
- The vaccine can be given regardless of the time since the patient's last tetanus-diphtheria booster 3.
- For adults with infant contact, the single recommended Tdap dose is suggested to be administered as soon as 2 years after the last tetanus vaccination 2.
Safety and Efficacy
- Studies have shown that Tdap can be safely administered at intervals of ≥18 months since a previous tetanus and diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine 4.
- Repeated doses of Tdap vaccine have been found to have acceptable safety relative to Td vaccination 5.
- A repeat dose of Tdap vaccine 10 years after the first dose was well tolerated and immunogenic in adults 6.
Special Considerations
- The ACIP recommends that health-care providers recommend Tdap vaccination to adults aged 18-64 years whose most recent tetanus vaccination was ≥10 years prior 2.
- There is no specific contraindication for administering the Tdap vaccine to a male patient whose partner is pregnant, as the vaccine is recommended for adults to protect against pertussis and prevent transmission to susceptible individuals, including infants 2, 3.