Publish date: 15 October 2024
A local expectant mother has become the first person at Tameside Hospital to receive a vaccination to protect her baby from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Tameside local, Madison Banner, visited the hospital’s antenatal unit for a routine appointment on 8 October. During her appointment, Madison was told about the risks of RSV to young children and offered protection in the form of the vaccine.
RSV is a common virus which can cause a lung infection called bronchiolitis. In young babies, the condition can make it hard to breathe and to feed. In most cases, it can be managed at home but around 20,000 infants are admitted to hospital with the condition each year in England.
Babies who are under six months old are particularly at risk of getting seriously ill from the virus and getting the jab during pregnancy helps to protect infants under six months old, as pregnant women share antibodies with their unborn child.
Madison said: “Like all mums-to-be I want the very best for my child and want to do everything I can to protect them now and for the rest of their life.
“During my antenatal appointment, the risks of RSV were explained to me and I was offered the vaccination. The decision to get my baby extra protection against getting sick was a no-brainer.”
Christine Bassett, Tameside and Glossop Integrated NHS Foundation Trust midwife, said: “RSV is highly contagious and while it causes mild, cold-like symptoms in most cases, it can be serious and even life-threatening to babies and those with a weakened immune system. It is really important that all those who are eligible get the vaccine.
“If you are pregnant, I’d ask that you make sure you have the vaccine when offered, as well as the vaccines for COVID-19, flu and whooping cough. Vaccines are quick, virtually painless and you’ll be providing the best protection possible for your unborn child.”
The vaccination programme to protect newborn babies against RSV across England began in September. The vaccine is recommended for women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant.
Pregnant women will be offered the RSV vaccine at their 28 week antenatal appointment or can contact their GP or midwife to request the vaccine.
