NHS Urges Pregnant Women to Get RSV Vaccine to Protect Babies
NHS leaders in the south-west of England are urging expectant mothers to receive the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza vaccines to protect newborn babies and pregnant women from severe illness. The push comes as health officials highlight regional take-up rates and the serious risks infants face from winter respiratory infections.
- Expectant mothers are advised by the NHS to receive the RSV vaccine at 28 weeks of gestation to shield newborns from severe lung infections.
- Data from NHS England indicates that the RSV vaccine reduces infant hospitalisation rates by approximately 85 percent.
- The south-west of England currently records the highest regional vaccine uptake rate in the UK at 72.5 percent for the RSV immunisation.
Regional Vaccine Uptake and NHS Guidance in the South West
The National Health Service is actively encouraging pregnant women to secure immunisations ahead of the winter season. Amanda Pritchard, a clinical supervisor with the vaccination team at Royal Cornwall Hospital, stated that information and invitations are dispatched to patients reaching 28 weeks of pregnancy. Alongside the RSV dose, clinical teams offer the seasonal flu vaccine to safeguard mothers against heightened vulnerability during gestation.
Government figures show that 72 percent of pregnant women in the South West accept the RSV vaccine, outperforming the national average of 62 percent. The Isles of Scilly record the highest sub-regional take-up rate at 77.8 percent. Despite these leading figures, clinical staff report encountering vaccine scepticism and a general lack of public awareness regarding the severity of RSV.
Clinical Impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus on Infants
Respiratory syncytial virus is a common pathogen that typically induces mild, cold-like symptoms in adults. However, the infection poses severe risks to infants, frequently leading to hospitalisation due to acute breathing and feeding difficulties. Lynne Hall, from the NHS Cornwall vaccination team, described the toll of the virus on young patients, noting that hospitalised babies often require intensive respiratory support.
NHS data records 36 deaths in individuals under 18 years of age from RSV across England last winter. Clinical observations indicate that immunisation administered during pregnancy substantially lowers the incidence of severe disease, with research demonstrating an 85 percent reduction in hospital admissions for immunised infants. Across England, an estimated 104,000 hospitalisations were avoided in 2025.
Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Seasonal Vulnerability
Public health officials emphasize the dual threat posed by influenza and RSV as colder weather approaches. Dr Julie Frier, consultant in public health and screening and immunisation lead for NHS England South West, noted the importance of protection against flu for vulnerable populations. Health workers on the ground continue to provide counselling and educational resources to address patient hesitancy and answer questions regarding vaccine safety.
Expectant mothers seeking guidance on immunization schedules or experiencing pregnancy-related respiratory symptoms should consult with qualified obstetricians, midwives, or general practitioners to review appropriate preventative care options.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.