Which vaccine is contraindicated during pregnancy?

The contraindication of live attenuated vaccines during pregnancy is based on the potential risks they pose to the developing fetus. Live attenuated vaccines contain a weakened form of the virus or bacterium, which has the ability to replicate in the body. This replication, while usually not harmful in healthy individuals, may pose a risk to a fetus since the immune system of a developing baby is still maturing and may not be able to adequately fight off any potential infection that could result from the vaccine.

In contrast, the influenza vaccine is generally considered safe during pregnancy, particularly the inactivated flu vaccine. The tetanus vaccine is also recommended during pregnancy, specifically the Td or Tdap vaccines to protect both the mother and the newborn from tetanus and pertussis, respectively. Rho(D) immune globulin is used to prevent Rh incompatibility and is safe during pregnancy. Thus, the assertion that the live attenuated vaccines should be avoided in pregnant individuals aligns with established medical guidelines to safeguard maternal and fetal health.