Maternal RSV Vaccine Uptake Remained Low Since 2023
New research shows low vaccination rates among pregnant people despite a 74 percent reduction in infant hospitalization risk.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Pregnancy
Live Poll
Would you choose to receive recommended vaccines during your pregnancy?
Since the 2023 rollout of the RSVpreF vaccine, maternal uptake rates have remained limited across the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. A recent analysis of over 4 million pregnancies found that while the vaccine significantly reduces infant hospitalization risk, adoption remains well below ideal levels.
Why it matters
Low vaccination coverage leaves more infants vulnerable to severe RSV infections, which can result in hospitalizations for 3 of every 100 infants. Understanding these uptake patterns helps healthcare providers identify how to better support expectant families in making informed immunization decisions.
Studies covering 4 million pregnancies from 2023 to 2025 show uptake rates of 27.1 percent in the U.S. and 27.2 percent in France. The RSVpreF vaccine, which reduces infant RSV-related hospitalization risk by 74 percent, is optimally administered between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation.
The players
RSVpreF Vaccine
A preventive immunization administered during pregnancy to protect infants from severe respiratory syncytial virus infection.
The details
The RSVpreF vaccine is designed to provide infants with protective antibodies passed from the mother during the final weeks of pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from 16 studies to track how often patients opted for this protection during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. The findings suggest that patients who already follow recommendations for other standard pregnancy vaccines are more likely to also accept the RSV immunization.
Timeline
2023 marked the beginning of the RSVpreF vaccine rollout.
Data analyzed covers the 2023-2025 study period.
The Home Front
The introduction of the RSVpreF vaccine in 2023 represents a shift in pediatric preventative care, moving protection directly to the prenatal stage. Current research highlights a persistent gap between the availability of this clinical protection and the actual vaccination rates observed in households.
If you are currently pregnant, discuss the recommended 32-to-36-week administration window for the RSV vaccine with your obstetrician. Review your overall pregnancy immunization schedule with your provider to ensure you are up to date on all recommended preventive health measures.
The takeaway
The RSVpreF vaccine offers a high level of protection for newborns, yet global uptake remains inconsistent. Speak with your healthcare provider at your next prenatal visit about whether this vaccine is appropriate for your pregnancy timeline.
Further reading
Learn more about health precautions during Pregnancy.
Live Poll
Would you choose to receive recommended vaccines during your pregnancy?
