Maternal Immunisation Readine​​ss Network in Africa and Asia (MIRNA)​​

Maternal immunisation refers to the vaccination of women during pregnancy to reduce illness and death for both mothers and their infants, both during pregnancy and the first six months of life. When a pregnant woman gets vaccinated, antibodies are produced in her blood. Antibodies act as soldiers th​​at fight infections and provide protection for the mother and baby. These antibodies are passed from the mother to her baby during pregnancy, protecting the baby after birth. ​


Current maternal vaccines​​​​

1. Tdap

Single dose given between
24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy

  • Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is an infection caused by contact with the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This bacterium enters the body through open wounds that come in contact with contaminated objects or substances. In newborns, tetanus can be acquired through the umbilicus that is cut with unsterilised instruments. Infected people may experience painful muscle spasms, fever, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing.
  • Diphtheria is a disease caused by a bacterium that produces a toxin that affects the nose, tonsils, and throat (respiratory tract), and can damage the heart and nerves. It spreads through coughs or sneezes from an infected person. 
  • Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a respiratory illness caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria. It is especially dangerous for newborns. Pertussis spreads through coughs and sneezes from infected individuals, and can cause heavy coughing, fever, congestion, and difficulty breathing.
2. COVID-19 vaccines
(Pfizer, J&J, Moderna)
  • COVID-19, or the coronavirus disease, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and results in respiratory illness. During pregnancy, mothers are at higher risk for serious illness or death due to COVID-19. Infection also exposes babies to complications both during pregnancy and after birth.  

3. Influenza vaccine

Pregnant women are prioritized during seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns

  • Seasonal influenza is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses and results in a high number of people becoming sick especially during the winter months. Seasonal influenza can result in serious illness and complications such as pneumonia (lung infection). ​


New maternal vaccines under development​
  • Respiratory syncytial virus 



  • Group B streptococcus 
​​(RSV) causes acute respiratory illness, which is especially dangerous for infants below six months of age and may lead to hospitalisation and even death.

(GBS) is a bacteria that can lead to neonatal and infant infection and meningitis (the inflammation of tissue around the brain and spinal cord). GBS also contributes to preterm births, stillbirths, and problems with the development of the child.