Global study finds stark differences in maternal RSV vaccine uptake
Vaccination against a common respiratory virus during pregnancy lowers the risk of severe disease in babies by 74%, but uptake in many countries remains low, a new review suggests. The report also reveals evidence of lower uptake of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine among some socioeconomic and ethnic groups, those with reduced access to health care and younger mothers.
A global study evaluating maternal RSV vaccine uptake reveals stark differences across countries and populations. Vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of severe disease in babies, cutting hospitalization rates by around 74%, according to research involving over 4 million pregnancies across 16 studies. However, despite the vaccine's effectiveness, uptake remains low in many regions, with some socioeconomic and ethnic groups experiencing even lower rates of vaccination.
Lower access to healthcare and younger mothers also contribute to the disparities. While Scotland and England have achieved relatively high coverage rates of 62% and 58% respectively, the United States lags with an estimated 27% uptake. The vaccine is delivered alongside other preventive measures and has shown no increased risk of preterm birth when administered between 32 and 35 weeks of pregnancy.
Experts emphasize the need for targeted outreach, improved supply chain systems, and robust policies to address the low uptake rates, especially among vulnerable populations, to maximize the vaccine's benefits for newborns.
Written by urgent.news from Medical Xpress's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
