RSV Vaccination in Pregnant Patients

Overview

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of hospitalization in infants, particularly during the first months of life. To help protect newborns during this vulnerable period, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends RSV vaccination during pregnancy. A single dose of the RSV vaccine* is advised between 32 and 36 weeks’ gestation, administered during RSV season, typically September through January. Vaccination during this window allows protective antibodies to pass from mother to baby, offering early defense against severe RSV illness.

Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to support maternal immunization efforts, especially in areas where access to obstetric care is limited. As accessible and trusted healthcare providers, pharmacists can play a key role in identifying eligible patients, educating them about the benefits of RSV vaccination, and administering the vaccine to help protect both mother and baby from serious illness.

*Pfizer’s Abrysvo is the only RSV vaccine approved by the FDA and recommended for use in pregnancy.  It is not approved or recommended for the direct immunization of infants.

Pharmacist Authority to Prescribe and Administer RSV Vaccines

Updated July 2026

RSV Vaccination Flowchart Decision Cards

NASPA, with input from an expert panel, including practicing pharmacists and clinical specialists, created state-specific flowcharts for pharmacists to use when counseling their pregnant patients.

These flowchart cards were developed to help pharmacists quickly and confidently determine whether a pregnant patient is eligible to receive the RSV vaccine in the pharmacy setting. The tool walks through gestational age, seasonality, and eligibility criteria in a clear, step-by-step format designed for practical, point-of-care use.

What the Cards Help You Do

• Identify timing: Confirm if the patient is between 32 0/7 and 36 6/7 weeks gestation (or an estimated delivery date (EDD) between September 23 and March 28.)
• Assess seasonality: Determine if it’s currently RSV season (typically September through January).
• Account for geographic variation: Recognize areas where RSV circulation may be less predictable (e.g., southern Florida, Puerto Rico, Alaska, etc.).
• Guide action: Whether it’s to vaccinate today, schedule a follow-up, or defer to monoclonal antibody protection after birth, the flowchart ensures appropriate care.

When to Use the Flowchart

• During medication consultations with pregnant patients
• As a quick reference during vaccine appointments
• When planning follow-up visits during RSV season
• To educate staff or guide protocol development

Download your state-specific card below:

Alabama	Kentucky	North Dakota
Alaska	Louisiana	Ohio
Arizona	Maine	Oklahoma
Arkansas	Maryland	Oregon
California	Massachusetts	Pennsylvania
Colorado	Michigan	Rhode Island
Connecticut	Minnesota	South Carolina
Delaware	Mississippi	South Dakota
District of Columbia	Missouri	Tennessee
Florida	Montana	Texas
Georgia	Nebraska	Utah
Hawaii	Nevada	Vermont
Idaho	New Hampshire	Virginia
Illinois	New Jersey	Washington
Indiana	New Mexico	West Virginia
Iowa	New York	Wisconsin
Kansas	North Carolina	Wyoming

Additional Resources

RSV Vaccination

Infant Immunization with the RSV Monoclonal Antibody

The RSV vaccine is not FDA-approved or recommended for direct immunization of infants. Instead, infants under 8 months of age who are not protected from RSV through maternal vaccination may be eligible to receive a monoclonal antibody (nirsevimab or clesrovimab) for immunity during their first RSV season.

• Protecting Your Baby from RSV: Protection During Pregnancy or Protection After Birth (ACOG)
• RSV Immunization Guidance for Infants and Young Children (CDC)