ACOG's Bold New Recommendations

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has unveiled crucial updates, urging pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. This guidance underscores the vital role of vaccination not only for maternal health but crucially for the wellbeing of infants.

COVID-19 Vaccination: A Must for Moms-to-Be

In its latest advisory, ACOG strongly recommends that anyone pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding receives the COVID-19 vaccine, particularly during the critical periods of pregnancy. Current research shows that these vaccines significantly reduce the risks of severe illness as well as complications like preterm birth and stillbirth.

Notably, infants born to vaccinated mothers enjoy better immunity, showcasing higher levels of antibodies than those whose mothers were infected without vaccination. Alarmingly, less than 5% of mothers whose infants were hospitalized for COVID-19 had been vaccinated during their pregnancies. 'Infants are being hospitalized for COVID-19—with rates only surpassed by adults over 75,' ACOG officials warned.

Flu Vaccination: Protect Yourself and Your Baby

ACOG continues to advocate for flu shots—specifically inactivated or recombinant vaccines—at any trimester, ideally before flu season kicks in. However, mothers should avoid the live-attenuated nasal spray vaccine. With flu complications posing serious risks to both pregnant women and their newborns, ACOG emphasizes the importance of vaccination.

Unfortunately, fewer than half of all pregnant women have opted for flu vaccination in recent years, a concerning trend. Experts urge that getting vaccinated can have impactful benefits for both mothers and their little ones.

RSV Vaccine: A New Layer of Protection

For RSV, ACOG's guidelines recommend the bivalent RSV PreF vaccine for women between 32 to 36 weeks of gestation. This vaccination is particularly critical for those who haven't had it in previous pregnancies and intend to keep their newborns protected from severe respiratory illnesses.

Moms who choose to skip the RSV vaccine should ensure their newborn receives monoclonal antibody treatment at birth to help shield them from this serious virus.

Unified Approach: All Three Vaccines Can Be Administered Together

The great news? ACOG states that all three vaccines can be given simultaneously, a significant advantage amid heightened vaccine hesitancy and misinformation. ACOG’s leadership underscores the need for health care professionals to actively advocate for these vaccines as flu and respiratory illness seasons loom.

Key Takeaways for Expecting Moms

- **COVID-19 Vaccine:** Safe at any stage during pregnancy, this shot guards against severe illness and lowers the risks of complications like preterm birth and protects your baby for the initial months.

- **Flu Shot:** Also safe during any trimester, crucial in reducing flu complications for both mothers and babies. Remember, only the standard flu shot is recommended.

- **RSV Vaccine:** Recommended for administration between 32 and 36 weeks, this shot is essential for preventing serious respiratory issues in infants. If skipped, make sure your baby receives antibody protection at birth.

In summary, ACOG’s updated guidelines provide a solid foundation: Vaccination during pregnancy is a reliable method to ensure both mothers and their babies stay healthy and safe from serious respiratory illnesses.