Expectant parents can now receive a new vaccine to protect themselves and their baby against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
RSV is a very common, but potentially serious, virus that affects the airways and lungs. It causes cough and colds and often goes away on its own, but in some cases can lead to more harmful illness such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
For babies, it can cause inflammation and blockage of the small air tubes in the lung, making breathing and feeding difficult, which may mean they need to be treated in hospital.
Women who are 28 weeks’ pregnant or more will now be offered an RSV vaccine for free as part of their recommended maternal vaccinations, up until the arrival of their baby. Having the vaccine during pregnancy boosts the antibodies in the women’s immune system, which passes on to their unborn child through the placenta.
Tildy Ashcroft, Specialist Midwife for Antenatal and Newborn Screening, said: “We regularly see babies on the ward with illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia which is scary for any parent. I think the RSV vaccine is a fantastic way to protect babies at the most vulnerable time of their lives and can provide reassurance to parents.
“As a midwife I would encourage any expectant mum to speak to their midwife about the vaccinations that are available for you and your baby. We are always happy to answer any questions you have and are here to support you.”
Around 20,000 babies are hospitalised from RSV each year and may need to receive intensive care treatment to support their recovery. The new vaccine helps to reduce the risk of severe RSV by around 70 per cent for babies from birth, up to six months old.
Rachel Bibby, a midwife at the Trust, was among the first expectant mothers at Warrington Hospital to receive her RSV vaccine. She said: “Even though I am 37 weeks’ pregnant I knew the vaccine would be beneficial and I was keen to receive it when I was offered it. As a new mum I am willing to do anything to keep my baby safe, and if I can protect them from being poorly then why not.
“I would definitely encourage all mums right up to the due date of their pregnancy to have the vaccine.”
The RSV vaccine is offered alongside other maternal jabs to protect expectant parents and babies from preventable illnesses. This includes vaccinations for flu, COVID-19 and pertussis which protects against whooping cough.
Ali Kennah, Chief Nurse at Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals, said: “Having vaccines in pregnancy is one of the best ways you can protect your newborn baby. RSV is a preventable illness, and this new vaccine will provide the greatest protection against severe illness. I would encourage all expectant parents to take up the maternal vaccines that are offered and speak to your midwife if you have any questions.”
As advised by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the RSV vaccine has been approved by medicines regulators in the UK, Europe and the USA. Many thousands of women have had the vaccine in other countries, including more than 100,000 women in the USA.
RSV vaccinations will also be offered to older adults aged 75 to 79 years old as a ‘catch-up’ to provide protection as the winter months approach.
For more information on the RSV vaccine speak to your maternity service, GP surgery or visit the NHS website.
