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New UK Vaccine Cuts RSV Hospitalizations for Infants by 80%

4/18/2026

27 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A 2024 UK program introduces a vaccine for pregnant women that reduces RSV hospital admissions by over 80%.
The vaccine is given from 28 weeks of pregnancy and provides about 85% protection when given four weeks before birth.
A study of nearly 300,000 births shows most hospitalized infants were born to unvaccinated mothers.
Dr. Conall Watson of the UK Health Security Agency emphasizes the vaccine's importance for baby safety.

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Story summary

A 2024 UK program introduces a vaccine for pregnant women that reduces RSV hospital admissions by over 80%.
The vaccine is given from 28 weeks of pregnancy and provides about 85% protection when given four weeks before birth.
A study of nearly 300,000 births shows most hospitalized infants were born to unvaccinated mothers.
Dr. Conall Watson of the UK Health Security Agency emphasizes the vaccine's importance for baby safety.