Jan Zuiderveld

Dr. Jan Zuiderveld


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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25 March 2025 in Vaccines
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SMSien J. Mulleners
Sien J. Mulleners
HJHannah G. Juncker
Hannah G. Juncker
JZJan Zuiderveld
Jan Zuiderveld
KZKirsten A. Ziesemer
Kirsten A. Ziesemer
Johannes B. van GoudoeverJohannes B. van Goudoever
Johannes B. van Goudoever
BKBritt van Keulen
Britt van Keulen
Newborns are born with an immature immune system, making them susceptible to infections early in life. Human milk provides essential nutrients and immunological factors that support infant immunity. Maternal vaccination during lactation has the potential to enhance these benefits by triggering an immune response in the mother, potentially extending protection to her child. However, lactating individuals are often excluded from vaccine trials, leading to uncertainties about vaccine safety and efficacy during the postpartum period. This study critically evaluates the effectiveness of vaccines in enhancing the immune-supporting properties of human milk and assesses their safety and efficacy for lactating mothers and their infants. By examining potential benefits alongside safety concerns, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of postpartum vaccination’s impact on maternal and infant health. We utilized large-language models (LLMs) to enhance the review process and performed a structured literature search across Ovid/Medline, Embase, and Clarivate Analytics using terms like “breastfeeding”, “postpartum”, and “vaccination”. A three-stage screening process involving human and LLM-assisted evaluation focused on postpartum vaccines and their implications for maternal and infant health. We identified 73 studies covering vaccines against COVID-19, cholera, influenza, pertussis, pneumococcal, rabies, polio, rotavirus, rubella, varicella, typhoid, smallpox, and yellow fever. Most vaccines, such as those for COVID-19 and influenza, appear safe and effective for postpartum use without requiring precautionary measures. However, caution is advised with vaccines such as the yellow fever vaccine, where temporary breastfeeding cessation is recommended. Overall, this review underscores the compatibility of most vaccines with lactation and suggests its benefits for both mother and infant.