As a pregnant patient, you may be aware of the importance of protecting your unborn child from various infections, including Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is a common virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in healthy individuals, but it can lead to severe respiratory illness in infants, especially those who are premature or have underlying health conditions. As new options for prevention become available, understanding the differences between RSV vaccines and monoclonal antibodies is essential in making informed decisions for you and your baby.
What is RSV?
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, spreads primarily during the fall and winter months. While it often leads to mild illness in older children and adults, RSV can be particularly dangerous for babies and young children. It is the leading cause of hospitalization among infants in the United States. Protecting your newborn from RSV is crucial, especially during their first winter.
RSV Vaccine in Rockville and Silver Spring, MD
The RSV vaccine, specifically the Pfizer vaccine known as Abrysvo, is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for pregnant individuals between 32 to 36 weeks of gestation during RSV season, which runs from September to January. This vaccine stimulates the mother’s immune system to create antibodies that are then passed to the fetus, providing your baby with passive immunity that can last for the first six months after birth.
Receiving the RSV vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in your newborn. It’s important to note that while multiple RSV vaccines have received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Abrysvo is currently the only one approved for use during pregnancy.
Monoclonal Antibodies
In addition to the vaccine, there is a preventive treatment option for newborns called nirsevimab. This is an injection containing lab-made antibodies that provide immediate protection against RSV, but it is not a vaccine. Nirsevimab is intended for high-risk infants and is particularly effective when administered during the RSV season.
If this is your first pregnancy, ACOG strongly recommends getting the RSV vaccine. However, if you received the vaccine during a prior pregnancy, you won’t need it again, but it’s essential for your baby to receive nirsevimab to ensure they are well-protected against RSV.
Making the Choice
As a patient at Capital Women’s Care, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider about the best prevention strategy for you and your baby. The decision between receiving the RSV vaccine during pregnancy or utilizing monoclonal antibodies (nirsevimab) postpartum will depend on your health status and risk factors.
Both options contribute significantly to reducing the risk of severe RSV in newborns but do so in different ways. Vaccination can offer longer-lasting immunity, while monoclonal antibodies provide immediate protection for those who may be at higher risk.
Contact Capital Women’s Care in Rockville and Silver Spring, MD
At Capital Women’s Care, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way to ensure you have the information to protect your little one during their most vulnerable months of life. Your proactive approach to seeking knowledge and asking questions reflects your dedication to your baby’s well-being. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our caring team if you have any concerns or want to discuss the best prevention strategy for your family. Together, we can help provide a healthy start for your newborn! If you have any questions reach out to us at (301) 681-9101.