RSV Vaccine Shown Safe, Effective for Moms with HIV and Babies

Landmark study expands access to critical maternal vaccination for vulnerable population.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Recent data presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections demonstrates the safety and effectiveness of maternal RSV vaccination for mothers living with HIV and their infants. The Pfizer-sponsored trial, involving 331 pregnant women with HIV in South Africa and their 314 infants, found the vaccine elicited robust maternal antibody responses that were effectively transferred to infants, providing early protection against RSV.

Why it matters

Traditionally, pregnant women with HIV have often been excluded from vaccine trials, limiting the ability to assess vaccine performance and safety within this vulnerable group. This breakthrough study directly addresses this gap, paving the way for broader recommendations regarding maternal RSV vaccination and potentially leading to universal protection for all infants.

The details

The research, led by Emily Wasserman, MD, director of clinical development at Pfizer, revealed that the vaccine elicited robust maternal antibody responses comparable to those observed in earlier trials with HIV-negative mothers. Crucially, these antibodies were effectively transferred to infants, providing early protection against RSV. While infant RSV neutralizing antibody titers were slightly lower than those seen in previous trials, the levels remained significant, suggesting a protective effect.

  • The study findings were presented at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections held from February 22-25, 2026 in Denver.

The players

Emily Wasserman, MD

Director of clinical development at Pfizer and lead researcher on the study.

Sharon Nachman, MD

Professor of Pediatrics at SUNY Stony Brook who emphasized the importance of these findings in expanding vaccine access to pregnant women with HIV.

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What they’re saying

“Routine exclusion of pregnant women with HIV severely limits the ability to employ vaccines around the world. This study demonstrates that women with HIV are excited to participate in studies and that the vaccine demonstrates infant protection. We necessitate these data to help protect all children from illness associated with RSV.”

— Sharon Nachman, MD, Professor of Pediatrics

What’s next

Researchers are continuing to investigate the long-term effectiveness and clinical outcomes of the maternal RSV vaccine in infants born to mothers with HIV.

The takeaway

This landmark study paves the way for broader recommendations regarding maternal RSV vaccination, potentially leading to universal protection for all infants. The findings demonstrate the importance of inclusive vaccine strategies that address the needs of historically underrepresented populations, such as pregnant women living with HIV.