Maternal Immunization and Neonatal Protection

Protecting newborns through passive antibody transfer has positioned maternal immunization and neonatal protection as a critical public health strategy. Vaccines administered during pregnancy can shield infants during their most vulnerable early months, before primary immunizations are feasible. Targeted diseases include pertussis, influenza, and increasingly, RSV. Safety profiles, timing of administration, and immune interference with later pediatric vaccines are ongoing areas of investigation. Implementation in low-resource settings poses unique challenges, but expanding antenatal care frameworks offer integration opportunities. By strengthening maternal health services and awareness, maternal immunization and neonatal protection holds promise for reducing neonatal mortality and establishing stronger health foundations from birth.