Maternal RSV Vaccine Uptake Remained Low
Studies across the US and Europe found that uptake for the RSVpreF vaccine during pregnancy varied significantly.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Pregnancy
Live Poll
Would you choose to receive recommended vaccines during your pregnancy?
Data from studies conducted between 2023 and 2025 across more than 4 million pregnancies revealed low maternal uptake of the RSVpreF vaccine. This vaccination, recommended for administration between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation, has been shown to reduce infant hospitalization risk by 74 percent.
Why it matters
Low vaccination rates among pregnant individuals may prevent widespread protection against RSV, which causes hospitalization in roughly 3 out of every 100 infants. Understanding these uptake patterns is critical to improving immunization reach and infant health outcomes.
A review of 16 studies covering 4 million pregnancies found maternal RSV vaccine uptake rates of 27.1 percent in the U.S., 19 percent in England, 50.4 percent in Scotland, and 27.2 percent in France. The vaccine is designed for administration between 32 and 36 weeks gestation.
The details
Researchers analyzed vaccination trends from the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons to determine how often the RSVpreF shot was utilized. The findings indicate that individuals who consistently follow other recommended prenatal vaccination protocols demonstrate a higher likelihood of choosing to receive the RSV vaccine.
Timeline
The rollout of the RSVpreF vaccine for pregnant individuals began in 2023.
The analyzed study data covers the period from 2023 through 2025.
Culture Shift
This data update follows the 2023 RSVpreF vaccine rollout and marks a critical point in evaluating public trust in new maternal health interventions. It underscores the ongoing challenges in normalizing new prenatal immunizations within international healthcare systems.
Expectant mothers can discuss the potential benefits of the RSV vaccine during prenatal visits, particularly given the 74 percent reduction in infant hospitalization risk. Choosing to receive the vaccine during the 32 to 36-week window requires minimal changes to existing prenatal care routines.
The takeaway
Healthcare providers may improve immunization rates by proactively discussing RSV vaccination alongside other established prenatal vaccines. Patients can increase their child's protection against severe RSV by coordinating this specific immunization within the recommended gestation window.
Further reading
For more information on prenatal health standards, visit our section on Pregnancy.
Live Poll
Would you choose to receive recommended vaccines during your pregnancy?
