Lexington, Kentucky, October 20, 2025
News Summary
As cooler weather approaches, Kentucky health officials are advising pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. The vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications during pregnancy, while also providing early immunity to newborns. Health authorities emphasize this as a crucial step to protect both mothers and infants as respiratory illness risks increase during the fall and winter seasons.
Lexington, Kentucky – With the arrival of cooler weather, public health officials in Kentucky are urging pregnant women to vaccinate against COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The warning comes as the seasons shift and the risks for respiratory illnesses increase significantly.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises that expectant mothers should seek vaccinations during pregnancy to enhance their health and that of their babies. The COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be administered at any point during the pregnancy, making it easier for women to get vaccinated at their convenience.
Pregnancy can heighten the severity of illnesses, underlining the importance of vaccinations to mitigate the risk of hospitalization and complications during pregnancy. Vaccinations not only protect mothers but also provide them with protective antibodies that can grant early immunity to their newborns during the initial months after birth. This early defense is crucial during the vulnerable first few months of life.
RSV, a virus recognizable as a common illness, poses serious respiratory risks for infants, especially those under a year old. ACOG recommends that pregnant women receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks’ gestation, particularly during RSV season, which occurs from September 1 to January 31. The RSV vaccine is designed to create antibodies that are passed to the baby before birth, offering essential protection during the first six months of life.
If pregnant women miss the RSV vaccination period, there is still an alternative: a preventive antibody shot can be administered to newborns shortly after delivery to help bolster their immune defense against RSV.
Vaccines can be obtained from various locations. Pregnant women may receive the COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines at their prenatal care providers, most local pharmacies, or health departments. Notably, all three vaccines can be given in the same appointment, simplifying the process for expecting mothers as they prepare for the illness-prone season.
Public health officials emphasize that vaccination during pregnancy represents one of the simplest and most effective measures to protect both mothers and babies from respiratory illnesses this fall and winter. In addition, ongoing vaccine distribution efforts, highlighted by initiatives at Kroger Field, aim to enhance community health across the region.
With these preventative measures, health officials are working diligently to ensure that pregnant women have every opportunity to safeguard their health and that of their infants as they face a season marked by respiratory illness concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should pregnant women get vaccinated against COVID-19, flu, and RSV?
Vaccination during pregnancy helps reduce the risk of severe illness, complications, and hospitalization related to these respiratory illnesses. It also provides early immunity to newborns, protecting them during their first months of life.
When is the best time for pregnant women to receive the RSV vaccine?
The RSV vaccine is recommended for pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy during the RSV season, which runs from September 1 to January 31.
Where can pregnant women get these vaccinations?
Pregnant women can obtain the COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines from their prenatal care providers, most local pharmacies, or health departments.
Can all three vaccines be administered at the same time?
Yes, all three vaccines (COVID-19, flu, and RSV) can be given during the same appointment, making it convenient for pregnant women to get vaccinated.
| Vaccine | Recommended Timing | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Any time during pregnancy | Reduces risk of severe illness |
| Flu | Any time during pregnancy | Prevents hospitalization and complications |
| RSV | 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy | Provides early immunity to the newborn |
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky Today: Health Risks with Cooler Weather
- Wikipedia: COVID-19 Vaccine
- Kentucky.com: Coronavirus Updates
- Google Search: Pregnancy Vaccination
- WHAS11: Kroger Field COVID-19 Vaccine Demobilization
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Health
- WDRB: Kroger Field Mask Policy
- Google News: Kentucky COVID-19
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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