Abstract
This chapter discusses the adult immunization strategy called “cocooning” to protect young infants from vaccinepreventable disease. Cocooning focuses on immunizing all close contacts of infants and highrisk children, thereby decreasing their exposure to these infectious diseases. The cocooning strategy is frequently recommended as a strategy to prevent transmission of influenza and pertussis. Cocooning may include the vaccination not only of mothers but also of fathers, grandparents, siblings, extended family members, daycare providers, healthcare workers, and other caregivers in contact with the infant. This chapter provides suggestions for implementing an adult immunization program in both ambulatory and inpatient pediatric settings.