What changed this week
ACOG has extended the recommended window for the maternal RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) from January 31 to March 1 for the 2026-27 season. This reflects later-peaking RSV seasons in recent years.
Background
Maternal vaccination with the bivalent RSV PreF vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation passes antibodies to the newborn, reducing the risk of infant hospitalization by 51–70% in the first season. Infants whose mothers were not vaccinated (or vaccinated too close to delivery) are recommended to receive a monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab or clesrovimab) instead.
AAP continues to recommend protection for all infants under 8 months entering their first season (unless protected by maternal vaccination) and has expanded high-risk criteria for children 8–19 months entering a second season (including those born before 32 weeks, with certain heart or lung conditions, neuromuscular issues, or Down syndrome).
What parents should ask
Competing viewpoints
Some clinicians note that supply and insurance coverage for the monoclonal antibodies remain uneven, especially at the hospital door. Others emphasize that the extended window simply matches observed seasonality and does not change the core recommendation for protection.
What to watch next
Local RSV activity levels, hospital stock of nirsevimab/clesrovimab, and any further updates from AAP or ACOG as the season progresses. Official sources: ACOG 2026-27 immunization guidance, AAP policy on RSV prevention.
Editorial context for parents, not medical advice. Confirm timing and eligibility with your clinician.
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