RSV Vaccine Breakdown

What is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a serious concern for newborns, particularly during their first few months of life. The RSV vaccine during pregnancy offers a way to protect your baby before birth, but timing and personal risk factors play a big role in when to get vaccinated. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know about the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.

When is the Best Time to Get the RSV Vaccine?

For a person with a low risk of preterm birth, the ideal time to receive the RSV vaccine is at 32 weeks of pregnancy. This is when the vaccine is most effective in passing immunity to the baby, and you’re still far enough along to minimize the risk of preterm labor. By getting the vaccine around this time, you ensure that your baby is born with protection, especially if you happen to deliver early.

However, if you have a higher risk of preterm birth—say, you’ve had a preterm birth before or have other risk factors—you might consider waiting until closer to 36 weeks to get vaccinated. This is because while the vaccine is generally safe, there was some imbalance observed in preterm birth rates in clinical trials. By waiting until 36 weeks, you’re giving your baby the best chance of being fully developed before getting vaccinated.

RSV Vaccine vs. Monoclonal Antibody (Beyfortus)

A common question is whether it’s better for the mother to get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy or for the baby to receive the monoclonal antibody (Beyfortus) after birth. While there aren’t head-to-head studies comparing the two, both options provide protection—just at different times and in different ways.

The RSV vaccine helps protect your baby from birth, as long as the baby is born at least 14 days after you’ve received the vaccine. This gives you more control over ensuring your baby’s protection, especially if you have no contraindications to the vaccine. Additionally, with shortages of Beyfortus now largely resolved, getting the vaccine may feel like a more reliable option for many moms-to-be.

On the other hand, Beyfortus provides faster protection for your baby. It doesn’t take 14 days to work; the protection starts increasing significantly within six hours of administration and peaks by day six. If you’re at higher risk for preterm birth or have concerns about the timing of vaccination, Beyfortus may be a good option to consider.

Making Your Decision

If you’re low risk for preterm birth and have no issues with vaccines, getting the RSV vaccine at 32 weeks seems like a safe and effective choice. If you’re higher risk or prefer faster protection for your baby, you might lean toward Beyfortus after birth. Ultimately, the decision depends on your own pregnancy and personal health factors, so it’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider to determine what’s best for you and your baby.