Vaccinations in pregnancy are important for the protection of mum and baby. As of September 2024, the NHS has made the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine available to all pregnant women in England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 28 to 36 weeks. It has been available across Scotland since August 2024. This shot is the latest in a number of vaccinations recommended when you’re carrying a baby. Unlike the COVID and flu vaccines, this isn’t a seasonal vaccine, even though RSV is more common in winter. The pertussis or whooping cough vaccination, which is also offered to pregnant women year-round, is given separately and usually offered from 20 weeks, though you can have it as early as 16 weeks and as late as 32 weeks. Vaccinations during pregnancy can be unnerving, and this Unii article aims to empower you with evidence-based information. All vaccinations in pregnancy require the mother’s consent.

What is RSV?

RSV is a very common respiratory virus that causes colds, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia. It can also cause croupe and a painful inner ear infection in babies. The RSV season runs from October to March, though, as mentioned, it is recommended that pregnant women receive the vaccination year-round. RSV is spread by respiratory droplets from sneezing and coughing. It is estimated that up to 90% of babies will have some respiratory condition in their first two years of life, which causes a significant burden on hospitals. Bronchiolitis is the most common reason that babies under one are admitted to UK hospitals.

If RSV is so common, could I already have immunity?

It is likely you were exposed to RSV in childhood and adulthood. However, research shows that pregnant women typically haven’t developed sufficient antibodies to pass on through the placenta in pregnancy naturally and keep babies protected in the first six months of life.

Will I have immunity in my next pregnancy as a result of being vaccinated in this pregnancy?

Your previous history of RSV vaccinations is not considered adequate protection for a new baby. You will need to have a new RSV vaccination in every pregnancy.

Who is at highest risk when they have RSV?

Premature babies, newborn babies under six months of age, and any child under two years of age with breathing, heart, or immunity problems are all at significant risk if they develop RSV.

How safe is the RSV vaccine in pregnancy?

The vaccine is widely considered safe and has been approved by UK, US, and European regulators for use on pregnant women. The data suggests the RSV vaccine is most efficacious when given between 28 and 36 weeks, enabling mum to build strong immunity before her baby arrives and giving babies excellent protection against serious respiratory issues in the vulnerable first six months. The vaccine boosts your own immune system, and antibodies are passed on to your baby through the placenta and in breastfeeding.

How effective is the RSV vaccine in pregnancy?

The most recent research shows that the RSV vaccination in pregnancy is 70% effective in protecting against the virus in a baby’s first six months of life, with some babies’ immunity lasting even longer.

Can the RSV vaccine cause RSV in me or my baby?

No, the RSV vaccination is not a “live” vaccine, so you and your baby will not develop symptoms as a result of the vaccination.

What are the side effects of the RSV vaccine in pregnancy?

The most commonly reported immediate side effects for the pregnant mother include pain, swelling, and swelling at the location site, headaches, and nausea.

Can I have all my pregnancy vaccines at the same time?

The timing of your vaccinations in pregnancy is very important and should be discussed with your doctor or midwife. In general, the flu vaccine and Covid vaccine can be given at any point in pregnancy and should be booked as soon as they are offered. It is usually recommended that you have a whooping cough vaccine earlier in pregnancy than the RSV vaccine, as evidence suggests that if you have it after 32 weeks, it is less effective. However, if you attend an NHS appointment for your RSV vaccination and have not yet received your whooping cough vaccination, the guidance is that you should be given both at the same time. The RSV vaccine is safe right up until a pregnant woman goes into labour although earlier immunisation is recommended to give time for strong immunity to develop.

For week-by-week guidance on sustaining a health pregnancy, check out Unii's Pregnancy Journey video course with Dr. Shree Datta. And to learn all about nurturing your newborn's health, take Unii's Newborn Journey with Dr.Su Laurent.

Antenatal Class Questions: What is the RSV vaccination in pregnancy?

Unii looks at the RSV vaccination for pregnant women, which works to prevent potentially life-threatening respiratory problems in babies.