The history of maternal immunization

Abstract Maternal immunization, or the vaccination of pregnant women for prevention of maternal, fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, has emerged as an exciting and rapidly expanding area of vaccine-preventable diseases research and clinical practice. The functionality of the maternal and neonatal immune system, transplacental transfer of antibodies to the fetus and potential inhibition of subsequent active infant immunization have added an additional layer of complexity to vaccine research. Today, vaccines are utilized in pregnant women to protect women and infants against influenza and pertussis, and additional vaccines are in development specifically for use in maternal immunization such as those against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Group B Streptococcus (GBS). The current expanding applications of vaccines administered during pregnancy closely mirrors trends in public policy regarding research in pregnant women. Consideration of past lessons learned, current work in vaccinology, as well as policy regarding inclusion of reproductive age and pregnant women in research may better predict future directions and successes for this approach to the protection of women and infants.