Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms in people of all ages. It typically creates mild illness in healthy individuals. It can, however, be severe in babies and young children, especially those born premature or with certain medical conditions. The vaccine is available for women during pregnancy.
How RSV Affects Newborns
RSV is highly contagious and often spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In most adults, it leads to mild symptoms similar to the common cold. In babies, RSV can be extremely dangerous?even deadly because of the risk for more severe complications like pneumonia and bronchiolitis. In the most serious cases, it leads to hospitalization and long-term breathing issues. RSV Vaccine During Pregnancy
Clinical trials have shown that receiving the RSV vaccine during pregnancy can protect newborns. The best time to receive the vaccine is if you?re between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy during September through January.
The vaccine causes the pregnant person’s immune system to produce specific proteins against RSV, which are then passed on to your growing baby. This early protection can significantly reduce the risk of severe RSV infection in newborns and during the early months of life. Discuss the RSV vaccine with your pregnancy care provider, who can give you recommendations based on your circumstances and medical history.
Benefits
Protection
Pregnant people can help keep thei...