“Routine vaccination with the RSV maternal immunization vaccine” looks set to begin in April.
At the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s “Health Sciences Council,” it was decided that the maternal immunization vaccine for RSV infection will become a routine vaccination, with vaccinations starting nationwide from April 2026.
What is RSV infection?
It is an acute respiratory infection caused by “RSV,” and it seems that nearly 100% of infants are infected at least once by the age of 2.
Reference: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare “RSV Infection”
What changes if you get the vaccine?
By receiving the vaccine during pregnancy, antibodies are produced in the mother’s body, transferred to the baby through the placenta, and can help prevent RSV disease.
Reference: Nishinomiya City “Routine Vaccination with the RSV Maternal Immunization Vaccine”
Which pregnant women are eligible?
Those from 28 weeks 0 days of pregnancy through 36 weeks 6 days (the vaccination is free).
※This applies only to those who are registered as residents of Nishinomiya City on the date of vaccination.
※Even if you have previously had “RSV,” you are still eligible for vaccination.
What kind of vaccine will be used?
It looks like Pfizer’s vaccine called “Abrysvo” will be used. (One dose per pregnancy)
Reference: Nishinomiya City “Routine Vaccination with the RSV Maternal Immunization Vaccine”
Where can you get vaccinated?
At contracted medical institutions (not yet announced; once decided, they will be posted on the “Nishinomiya City website.”)
※If you receive the vaccination outside Nishinomiya City, you must apply to the city in advance.
Finally
Seeing that “RSV is something children will inevitably catch by the age of 2” may sound scary, but there is detailed information on the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website and the vaccine manufacturer Pfizer’s website, so please take a look.
RSウイルスについて知ってた？
