RSV Vaccine During Pregnancy: Protecting Your Baby Before Birth

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a very common respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages. While it may feel like a common cold in adults, RSV can cause more serious illness in infants and young babies — especially during their first few months of life.

According to the World Health Organization, most children will catch RSV by the age of 2. In babies, RSV can sometimes lead to complications such as:

• Bronchiolitis
• Pneumonia
• Breathing difficulties
• Hospitalisation in severe cases

Why Are Newborn Babies More Vulnerable To RSV?

Newborn babies have developing immune systems and smaller airways, making them more vulnerable to respiratory infections.

In infants, RSV may cause:

• Persistent coughing
• Wheezing
• Fever
• Feeding difficulties
• Rapid breathing
• Reduced oxygen levels

In more severe cases, babies may require medical treatment or hospitalisation.

Because babies are most vulnerable during their first few months of life, protecting them before birth has become an important preventive healthcare approach.

Can Pregnant Women Get The RSV Vaccine In Singapore?

Yes. Pregnant women in Singapore can now receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.

The maternal RSV vaccine available in Singapore is designed to help pass protective antibodies from the mother to the baby before delivery.

This helps provide newborns with passive immunity during the early months after birth, when they are at highest risk of severe RSV infection.

When Should Pregnant Women Get The RSV Vaccine?

The RSV vaccine is recommended between 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.

Receiving the vaccine during this window allows the mother’s body enough time to produce antibodies, which can then cross the placenta and help protect the baby after birth.

How Does The RSV Vaccine Protect Newborn Babies?

When a pregnant woman receives the RSV vaccine:

1. Her immune system produces RSV antibodies
2. These antibodies are transferred to the baby during pregnancy
3. The baby is born with some protection against severe RSV illness

This may help reduce:

• Severe RSV infections
• RSV-related complications
• Hospital admissions in young infants

How Effective Is The RSV Vaccine During Pregnancy?

Studies have shown that maternal RSV vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in infants during their first months of life.

Research has also demonstrated reduced rates of RSV-related hospitalisation among babies born to vaccinated mothers.

Is The RSV Vaccine Safe During Pregnancy?

The RSV vaccine approved for maternal use has undergone clinical evaluation and is approved for use during pregnancy in eligible individuals.

Common side effects are usually mild and temporary, and may include:

• Injection site pain
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches

As with any vaccine during pregnancy, a medical consultation is recommended to assess suitability based on your individual medical history and pregnancy.

Who Should Consider RSV Vaccination During Pregnancy?

The RSV vaccine may be considered for pregnant women who:

• Are between 32 to 36 weeks pregnant
• Want to help protect their newborn baby from RSV
• Are concerned about infant respiratory infections
• Want additional protection for babies during the first few months after birth

RSV Vaccine For Pregnant Women Available At Healthsprings Singapore

Healthsprings Medical Clinics offers RSV vaccination for eligible pregnant women in Singapore.

If you are currently 32 to 36 weeks pregnant and would like to learn more about RSV vaccination during pregnancy, you may book a consultation HERE with our doctors to discuss whether the vaccine is suitable for you.