For more than two centuries, families have trusted vaccines to protect their loved ones. But the value of vaccines is measured by more than the number of doses given. Timing is also crucial. Maternal immunization—vaccinating pregnant women to protect the babies they are carrying—is a powerful way to reduce infant mortality. Our foundation is committed to making maternal vaccines widely available so that no matter where a mother lives, her young infant has every chance of surviving and thriving.
Maternal Immunization
Tetanus was the first disease Dr. Shabir Madhi treated as a young pediatric resident at a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. Now he’s addressing two more “invisible killers” that affect infants in the earliest hours and weeks of life, before their immune systems are strong enough to fight back.
One vaccination, three incredible benefits
Maternal Immunization
Two mothers, one from upstate New York in the United States and one from Johannesburg, South Africa, share their stories about group B streptococcus (GBS). One received routine screening for GBS, the other did not. The difference was critical.
Why GBS screening is so important
Maternal Immunization
Despite decades of such proven successes, little work has been done to develop new maternal vaccines. Experts are working to change that.
How maternal vaccines save lives