Pregnant women can once again be vaccinated against RSV

Pregnant women can now once again be vaccinated against RSV. The offer applies up to and including January 2027.

RSV is a common cold virus that can be particularly serious for infants. The vaccination is offered in connection with the third pregnancy check-up with the woman’s general practitioner in week 32 of pregnancy.

-“Infants are at increased risk of serious illness and hospitalisation if they contract RSV. This is because their immune system is still developing, and their small airways are affected by inflammation and mucus production as a result of the infection. We therefore recommend that pregnant women are vaccinated,” says Head of Unit Kirstine Moll Harboe.

The programme was first introduced in autumn 2025, when uptake was high. According to Statens Serum Institut, 72 percent of pregnant women in the target group received the vaccine.

-“It is very positive that so many pregnant women have accepted the vaccine, as it protects newborns against serious illness. The strong support for the programme in the first season also shows that healthcare professionals have been good at informing people about and supporting the offer. The programme, which starts again on 1 May, builds on these positive experiences, and our hope is that even more people will accept the offer,” says Kirstine Moll Harboe.

The vaccination protects the child through antibodies from the mother and can thereby prevent a large proportion of serious cases of illness and hospital admissions.

The Danish Health Authority recommends that pregnant women with a due date from July through March be vaccinated against RSV during the period from 1 May to 31 January. In addition, vaccination against whooping cough is recommended in week 25 of pregnancy all year round, as well as influenza vaccination in the second and third trimester during the period from 1 October to 20 December.