FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Vaccinations

Information about vaccinations

Introduction

Pregnancy increases the risk of certain vaccine-preventable diseases, which can lead to complications and poor health outcomes for both the parent and the infant. Some vaccinations are most effective when given prior to pregnancy.

Vaccinations can be administered by a GP, obstetrician, participating pharmacist, or Aboriginal Medical Service.

Standard recommended vaccines include:

  • Hepatitis B
  • Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
  • COVID-19

Additional vaccines may be recommended depending on individual risk. Encouraging patients to review and update their vaccination status before conception helps optimise maternal and infant health outcomes.

Encourage consumers to book an appointment with their preferred health provider to review and update their vaccinations before pregnancy.

If they are unsure of their vaccination history or immune status, they can check the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) for accurate records.

The role of pharmacists in supporting preconception care

Resources

Further resources

Women’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for women planning pregnancy

Men’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for men supporting conception

Before the Baby Bump is an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by Health and Wellbeing Queensland, and funded through Queensland Health’s Supporting Healthier Pregnancies Initiative.

Health and Wellbeing Queensland acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of the lands from across Queensland. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present for they are holders of the memories, traditions, the culture and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland.

© Health and Wellbeing Queensland 2026