You are here:>>Mums-to-be urged to be vaccinated

News

Mums-to-be urged to be vaccinated

2025-01-15T15:48:38+00:00Wednesday 15 January 2025|

Mums-to-be in Walsall and Wolverhampton are being urged to protect their newborns from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common infection that can make babies and older adults seriously ill.

The vaccine, which was introduced in September last year, can safeguard babies from severe RSV complications during their first few months of life.

RSV can lead to serious respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants and is a leading cause of hospitalisation among babies under one.

The RSV vaccine, administered at 28 weeks pregnant, allows mums to be to pass protective antibodies to their unborn babies. This has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in infants during their earliest and most critical months.

Mum-to-be can still have the vaccine later in their pregnancy, but it may be less effective.

The vaccine is a single injection and whilst some people do not have any side effects some may have a mild fever, headache and a mild soreness at the injection site.

Donna Perkins, Antenatal Clinic Manager at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, said “RSV can be extremely dangerous to newborns and by having the vaccine we know that we can protect them at their most vulnerable time.

“We aim to avoid hospital admission after giving birth and to give the best possible care and protection to our mums and babies.

“Midwives will be able to access eligibility for the vaccines when you attend your Antenatal Clinic appointment.

“By choosing to vaccinate, mums-to-be can help shield their newborns from RSV and ensure a healthier start to life.”

The vaccine was approved in May 2023 following clinical trials, which demonstrated its ability to reduce hospitalisations and severe illness in newborns.

Pregnant women are encouraged to speak with a Midwife or GP to learn more about the RSV vaccine and discuss their eligibility.

This website uses cookies and third-party services to improve your experience. Read more about our privacy policy and how we handle your data. I understand