Regarding rubella vaccination during pregnancy, which statement is true?

Regarding rubella vaccination during pregnancy, which statement is true?

• A. MMR vaccine is recommended during pregnancy
• B. MMR vaccine is contraindicated during pregnancy
• C. IVIG should be given to the mother during pregnancy
• D. Termination of the pregnancy is always required

Answer: (B)

During pregnancy, rubella vaccination is avoided because the MMR vaccine contains live attenuated rubella virus and could pose a risk to the fetus. This is why it is contraindicated in pregnancy; the standard approach is to immunize before conception and to vaccinate non-immune individuals after delivery, with guidance to avoid pregnancy for about a month after vaccination. IVIG is not routinely used to prevent or treat rubella in pregnancy, since there isn’t proven benefit for protecting the fetus. Termination is not automatically required if rubella infection occurs in pregnancy; the course depends on the gestational age and fetal status, and decisions are individualized with counseling.

During pregnancy, rubella vaccination is avoided because the MMR vaccine contains live attenuated rubella virus and could pose a risk to the fetus. This is why it is contraindicated in pregnancy; the standard approach is to immunize before conception and to vaccinate non-immune individuals after delivery, with guidance to avoid pregnancy for about a month after vaccination.

IVIG is not routinely used to prevent or treat rubella in pregnancy, since there isn’t proven benefit for protecting the fetus. Termination is not automatically required if rubella infection occurs in pregnancy; the course depends on the gestational age and fetal status, and decisions are individualized with counseling.