VRS Vaccination in Pregnancy: Reduces Infant Bronchiolitis Risk
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the most common cause of acute respiratory infections in childhood.
- In Euskadi, RSV infection peaks typically register between late autumn and winter.
- Fortunately, effective tools are now available to protect newborns from severe RSV illness.
Protecting Babies from RSV: Vaccination and Immunization Options
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What is respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the most common cause of acute respiratory infections in childhood. It’s estimated that up to 90% of children will be infected during their first two years of life. While most cases are mild, RSV can lead to severe illness in infants, requiring hospitalization, intensive care, and, in some instances, proving fatal.
RSV Infection Rates and hospitalizations in Spain
In Euskadi, RSV infection peaks typically register between late autumn and winter. across Spain, an estimated 7,000 to 14,000 hospitalizations occur annually due to RSV, making it the primary cause of hospitalization for children under two years of age. This significant burden highlights the importance of preventative strategies.
| Region | Estimated Annual Hospitalizations (RSV) |
|---|---|
| Spain (National) | 7,000 – 14,000 |
| Euskadi | Data not specified, but experiences seasonal peaks |
Preventative Measures: Vaccination and Immunization
Fortunately, effective tools are now available to protect newborns from severe RSV illness. There are two primary preventative strategies:
- Maternal Vaccination: Administering the RSV vaccine to pregnant women between weeks 24 and 36 of gestation. This allows for the transfer of antibodies to the baby through the placenta.
- Direct Newborn Immunization: Providing direct immunization to newborns with a monoclonal antibody against RSV.
with the arrival of September, the recommendation for RSV vaccination during pregnancy begins.Vaccination for pregnant women is advised between weeks 24 and 36 of gestation from September to January, while direct newborn protection is recommended from October to March.
Why Vaccinate During Pregnancy?
While many women have been exposed to RSV in childhood, naturally acquired antibodies don’t always guarantee sufficient protection for their babies. Administering the vaccine to the mother during pregnancy temporarily increases her antibody levels, which are then transferred to the fetus.This provides the newborn with protection from the first day of life, reducing the risk of severe bronchiolitis during their first six months by up to 70%.
What if the Baby is Born Early?
Despite maternal vaccination, immunization is also recommended in certain cases. This includes situations where delivery occurs less than 14 days after the mother receives the vaccine, as there hasn’t been enough time for antibody transfer.Additionally, it’s considered for higher-risk infants, such as premature babies, those with serious heart conditions, or those with weakened immune systems.
RSV Vaccination in Spain: Current Status
The RSV vaccination is currently approved in Spain but hasn’t yet been incorporated into the official national vaccination calendar for pregnant women. Though, at Policlínica Gipuzkoa Gynecology and Pediatrics, future mothers can discuss their options and determine the best strategy to protect their baby with their specialist. “Vaccinating is preventing, and preventing is always the best decision when we talk about the health of a newborn,” emphasizes Santiago Novoa, a gynecologist at Policlínica Gipuzkoa.