Getting a shot of the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy not only protects the mother but also passes on protection to newborns during their most vulnerable early months of life, according to a new study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Based on data from 26 pediatric hospitals around the country through May 2023, the study found that maternal vaccination was 54% effective against COVID-19 hospitalization in infants under 3 months old. However, the effectiveness dropped to 35% in infants aged 3 to 5 months.
The findings, published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, highlight the potential of maternal vaccination during pregnancy to prevent COVID-19 hospitalization in infants too young to be vaccinated.
Protection for both mother and baby
Previous studies have also shown the benefits of vaccination during pregnancy. For example, the Overcoming COVID-19 Network found vaccine effectiveness of up to 80% in babies born to mothers who received their shots later during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also urges eligible pregnant parents to get vaccinated, citing numerous studies confirming the safety of the vaccines and their ability to reduce the risk of severe illness for expectant parents.
Pregnancy poses a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and can lead to complications, including stillbirth. However, the overall risks are low, as stated by the CDC.
According to Dr. Fiona Havers from the CDC, hospitalization rates from COVID-19 are increasing in all age groups, including young infants. Data from the CDC’s COVID-NET system revealed that hospitalization rates remain worse for babies from COVID-19 compared to influenza, even without underlying medical conditions.
How does maternal immunization for COVID-19 work?
Research supported by the National Institutes of Health has shown that pregnant moms who receive the COVID-19 vaccine develop antibodies against the virus, which are passed on to their babies through the placenta. Additionally, a new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is now recommended for use during pregnancy to protect newborns.
While some experts suggest that protection may also be transferred through breast milk, a recent study raises questions about the absorption of antibodies by babies. However, the majority of infants born to women who received the primary SARS-CoV-2 vaccine during pregnancy still had substantial transplacental antibodies five months after delivery.
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