Why vaccination during pregnancy is so important

Vaccination during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to protect against serious illnesses like RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), influenza (the flu), and whooping cough (pertussis). These illnesses can lead to complications for both mum and bub – but the good news is, protection is available and free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for Medicare eligible people.

Vaccines received during pregnancy help your body produce protective antibodies. These antibodies are passed to your baby through the placenta, helping to shield them in their most vulnerable early months – before they’re old enough to be vaccinated themselves.

RSV vaccine: A new way to protect your newborn

RSV is a common and highly contagious virus that can cause serious lung infections such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia in babies and young children. RSV is the most common reason babies less than 6 months  are admitted to hospital.

A new, free RSV vaccine – Abrysvo® – is now available for pregnant women from 28 weeks, as part of the 2025 national RSV Maternal and Infant Protection program, funded under the NIP.

This maternal vaccine helps your body make antibodies that pass to your baby before birth, protecting them from serious RSV-related illness in the first few months of life.

Research shows this vaccine can reduce the risk of severe RSV illness in babies under six months by about 70%.

It’s safe to receive alongside other routine vaccines. Talk to your GP, midwife, pharmacist or immunisation provider to check your eligibility and book your appointment.

Some newborns and older infants may also be eligible for a free RSV immunisation (Beyfortus™), depending on their risk. For more information, see sahealth.sa.gov/RSV

Whooping cough vaccine: Essential for you and baby

Whooping cough (pertussis) can cause a relentless cough that lasts for weeks or even months – and it’s particularly dangerous for babies under six months.

Pregnant women can receive a free whooping cough vaccine between 20 and 32 weeks through the NIP (it can also be given right up until birth).

Your body needs about two weeks to produce antibodies, which are then passed to your baby to help protect them from birth.

Babies under six months are at the highest risk of hospitalisation and serious complications – and over half of infant cases come from parents.

Immunising during pregnancy helps protect your little one until they’re old enough for their own vaccinations.

Again, speak to your doctor, midwife or health professional about getting vaccinated.

Influenza vaccine: A yearly must for mums-to-be

The flu can be more than just a nasty bug – it can lead to serious illness and complications in pregnant women and can also lead to premature birth and serious illness in babies.

Flu spreads easily, and vaccination is recommended each year for everyone aged six months and older.

Pregnant women are offered the flu vaccine for free, and it’s safe at any stage of pregnancy and while breastfeeding. If you had the 2024 flu shot early in your pregnancy, you’re still encouraged to get the 2025 flu vaccine before your baby is born.

Even if you were vaccinated before falling pregnant, you should get the 2025 flu vaccine again during pregnancy to protect your baby.

Once vaccinated, your body creates antibodies that pass to your baby through the placenta – and after birth, through breast milk – offering early protection from influenza.

The flu vaccine can be safely given alongside the whooping cough and RSV vaccines.

Planning ahead

Protecting your baby starts before birth – and a few simple steps now can make a big difference later. To get your free vaccines during pregnancy:

• Chat with your GP, midwife, nurse, pharmacist or immunisation provider.
• Ask about eligibility and which vaccines are right for your stage of pregnancy.
• Book your appointments early to ensure optimal protection for both you and your baby.

Want to learn more? Talk to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or immunisation provider. Read more about pregnancy and immunisation here.

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