What is the RSV vaccination during pregnancy?

After the RSV vaccination during pregnancy, a pregnant person makes antibodies against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These antibodies are passed on to the baby through the placenta. That means that the baby is protected against RSV for about six months after being born. This is similar to the vaccination against flu (influenza) and the vaccination against whooping cough (pertussis). These are also available to pregnant people to protect their baby against illness in the first few months after birth.

Between weeks 24 and 36 of pregnancy

The RSV vaccination can be given between week 24 and week 36 of pregnancy. Research shows that the vaccination protects the baby more effectively for longer if it is given after week 30 of pregnancy. This applies to a pregnancy that lasts a standard 40 weeks. If the vaccination is given later in pregnancy and the baby is born prematurely, it may not be fully effective yet. 

Safe and officially approved

The RSV vaccination is safe and has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Vaccines are always tested rigorously before approval. Because the vaccine is relatively new, possible side effects are monitored closely.

Mild side effects

The most common reactions reported after the RSV vaccination during pregnancy are: pain at the injection site, tiredness and muscle pain. The side effects are generally mild and go away within two days. Similarly, unborn babies do not have any serious side effects from the RSV vaccination after the mother is vaccinated. For more information about the side effects, see the vaccine information leaflet(PDF).

How can I get the RSV vaccination during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant and would like to get the RSV vaccination, Contact your GP, the vaccination department or travel vaccination clinic at the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs), or a vaccination centre. You will need to cover the costs of the vaccination yourself. The vaccine is called Abrysvo and costs 180 euros, plus VAT (9%), as well as any fees for administering the injection. Ask the Municipal Public Health Service (GGD), vaccination centre or chemist about the total costs.

RSV antibodies for babies

Babies can also receive antibodies against RSV, but the RSV antibody injection is not yet available in the Netherlands. It will probably be added to the National Immunisation Programme in autumn 2025. The RSV vaccination during pregnancy is already available (at your own expense). As a result, you can protect your baby as early as the RSV season of 2024–2025. Babies from some high-risk groups are already scheduled to receive a different medicine containing RSV antibodies through their paediatrician, known as palivizumab. They will receive 5 doses of this antibody injection during the RSV season.