Almost two years after approval of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine for pregnant women in Singapore, more mothers are getting vaccinated, yet numbers are still too low to reduce infant hospital admissions, doctors report.
- RSV causes serious respiratory infections in infants year-round in Singapore.
- The vaccine is recommended between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
- Cost and safety concerns remain barriers for wider vaccine acceptance.
What happened
Since 2024, pregnant women in Singapore have had the option to receive the RSV vaccine to help protect their newborns from respiratory infections. This vaccine works by passing antibodies from the mother to the baby, shielding infants during their most vulnerable early months. Local doctors have observed a gradual increase in vaccine uptake, especially in later stages of pregnancy, which is encouraging for wider protection.
However, the total number of vaccinated pregnant women is still too low to cause a noticeable decline in hospital admissions due to RSV among infants. Pediatricians report that infant RSV admissions remain steady and similar to previous years. Some babies who contract RSV despite maternal vaccination tend to experience milder symptoms that do not require hospitalization.
Why it feels good
The vaccine offers significant potential benefits. Evidence from countries such as the United Kingdom shows that maternal RSV vaccination can reduce infant hospitalizations by over 80%, especially when the vaccine is administered earlier in pregnancy. This indicates promising protection levels for newborns, helping families avoid serious complications like bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Additionally, infants who do experience RSV after maternal vaccination often have less severe cases, reducing the strain on healthcare systems and improving recovery prospects. Increasing awareness and acceptance among pregnant women means more families will soon benefit from this protective measure, contributing positively to infant health outcomes.
What to enjoy or watch next
Expectant mothers and healthcare providers are encouraged to continue conversations about the RSV vaccine during antenatal visits. Clinics in Singapore, including public hospitals, have integrated vaccine discussions into routine care starting from 32 weeks of pregnancy. Shared decision-making between patients and clinicians supports informed choices tailored to individual needs.
Looking ahead, wider vaccine adoption could lead to a measurable drop in infant RSV hospitalisations. Efforts to address concerns about vaccine safety, efficacy duration, and cost—currently ranging between S$250 and S$350 without subsidy—will be key to encouraging more pregnant women to receive the jab. Ongoing evaluations by health authorities may also influence future vaccination policies and potential subsidy availability.