A vaccine administered during pregnancy has significantly reduced hospital admissions of infants with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) chest infections by 80%, according to health authorities.
Over 20,000 babies were estimated to require hospitalization after contracting RSV, a condition that predominantly affects infants in their early months, causing breathing difficulties and feeding challenges.
Since 2024, pregnant women have been receiving a vaccine starting at 28 weeks to diminish the incidence of RSV in newborns. A study examining the vaccine’s impact revealed that it offers strong protection to vulnerable infants, as stated by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
RSV is a primary cause of infant hospitalizations before their first birthday, with newborns under 6 months, premature infants, individuals over 75, and those with weakened immune systems being at higher risk, according to the NHS.
Almost all children contract RSV before turning 2, with severe cases potentially leading to respiratory issues necessitating hospital care.
Dr. Conall Watson, the lead for RSV at the UKHSA, expressed concern, saying, “This is very, very frightening as a parent, frightening with good reason.” The study indicated an 85% protection rate for newborns when the vaccine is administered at least four weeks before birth.
The research suggested that receiving the vaccine later in pregnancy could still provide some protection, with Dr. Watson advising, “If you’ve got a longer interval between when the vaccine is given and when the baby is born, then you get even better protection.”
Highlighting the importance of timely vaccination, Dr. Watson urged pregnant women to consider the vaccine during the third trimester for the safety of their babies. Data revealed that 4,500 infants were hospitalized due to RSV, mainly among those who had not been vaccinated.
Dr. Watson emphasized the significant impact of the vaccine in safeguarding infants during the winter months, encouraging pregnant women to discuss vaccination with healthcare providers and receive it around the 28th week of pregnancy.
Statistics show that approximately 64% of pregnant women in England receive the vaccine, with a lower rate of 53% in London.
