RSV Vaccination During Pregnancy and Its Impact on Perinatal Outcomes and Health Equity

Recent research conducted by City University London and published in BMJ Open has demonstrated that the uptake of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine among pregnant women does not increase the risk of adverse perinatal health outcomes. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into how vaccination rates vary across different demographic groups, highlighting significant disparities based on ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and age.

The study, in collaboration with the University of Cambridge, offers a holistic view of vaccination patterns and their implications for infant health. While the findings are reassuring regarding vaccine safety, the research underscores that vaccine uptake remains uneven, with higher rates among older women, those from more affluent backgrounds, and white ethnic groups. Conversely, ethnic minority women and women from deprived areas tend to have lower vaccination rates—a pattern consistent with other maternal vaccines like influenza and COVID-19.

As of August 2025, over two million pregnant women in England have received the RSV vaccine, yet coverage varies significantly across regions, with London exhibiting the lowest vaccination rates. The vaccine is anticipated to prevent around 5,000 hospitalizations and 15,000 emergency visits annually in the UK, primarily by reducing severe bronchiolitis in infants under six months.

Concerns regarding the safety of RSV vaccination during pregnancy, particularly related to preterm birth, were initially raised during early clinical trials. Nonetheless, the vaccine received EU approval in 2023, leading to varied implementation strategies across Europe, such as recommendations in France and the UK’s guidance for administering a dose between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation. These differences reflect ongoing debates about vaccine safety and the need for clear, culturally sensitive public health messaging.

Lead researcher Dr. Mohammad Sharif Razai emphasizes the importance of targeted, equitable strategies to improve vaccine acceptance among underserved communities. Experts like Professor Asma Khalil stress engaging communities with transparent information and culturally appropriate communication to bridge gaps in vaccine coverage.

The study highlights the urgent need for further research to thoroughly assess vaccine safety and to develop effective interventions that enhance vaccine delivery and awareness, ultimately aiming to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes for mothers and infants.