The introduction of the rotavirus vaccine nearly two decades ago led to a significant decrease in hospital visits for this common childhood infection. Now, researchers are working on a maternal vaccine to protect infants at birth from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The RSV vaccine is given to pregnant women during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy and helps create protective antibodies that can be passed to the baby.
These antibodies provide crucial protection for babies during their first few months of life, when they are most vulnerable to diseases like RSV. The vaccine is typically administered from September through January, coinciding with the start of RSV season in many regions. This seasonal administration ensures that the protection will last for the baby’s first RSV season.
The good news is that pregnant women can receive the maternal RSV vaccine at no out-of-pocket cost through most insurance plans, including Medicaid and employer-sponsored plans. Vaccines have been recommended during pregnancy for decades and are a critical tool against preventable respiratory diseases.
In fact, the maternal RSV vaccine can be administered during the same visit as other vaccines during pregnancy, such as Tdap, flu, or COVID-19 vaccines. Having worked in community health centers, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of maternal vaccinations. By vaccinating pregnant women and their families against flu, we minimized the risk of influenza spreading within households.
Now, we can take this protection a step further by providing early RSV protection to newborns during their first months of life. If you or a loved one is pregnant, ask your healthcare provider about the maternal RSV vaccine as part of routine prenatal care. This powerful way to strengthen immunity and share protection before birth can be a game-changer for families.
For more information on maternal vaccines and their importance, visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pregnancy.
Source: https://www.mynewstouse.com/stories/what-to-know-now-to-help-protect-your-newborn-from-rsv,37460