A recent study by the School of Public Health at the University of Ghana, in partnership with global health organisation PATH, has highlighted antenatal care (ANC) clinics as the most effective platform for delivering maternal vaccines that protect newborns from severe respiratory and bacterial infections.
The year-long research, titled Maternal Immunisation Optimisation, focused on the feasibility of using ANC services to administer vaccines that safeguard both expectant mothers and their unborn babies. Researchers identified vaccines targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Group B Streptococcus (GBS) as particularly crucial in preventing life-threatening complications in infants.
Speaking at the study’s dissemination meeting, Mr. Boateng Bannerman, a member of the research team, noted that infections acquired during pregnancy may not be evident at birth but can later cause severe illness or even death in newborns. “RSV and GBS are two major conditions that can lead to serious respiratory infections, sepsis, or meningitis in infants,” he said. The study estimates that 22 to 26 per cent of pregnant women in Ghana may have been exposed to RSV, while 10–30 per cent carry GBS.
The researchers pointed out that antenatal clinics already offer a strong foundation for vaccine delivery, citing the routine administration of tetanus toxoid as a successful precedent. Integrating newly available vaccines, including the RSV vaccine, into ANC services could therefore significantly improve access and coverage.
“Pregnant women already receive vaccines during their ANC visits. That same platform can efficiently deliver RSV and GBS vaccines to protect mothers and babies,” Mr. Bannerman explained. However, the study stressed that boosting antenatal attendance and public education would be essential to the success of maternal immunisation programs.
Mr. John Bawa, Country Manager of PATH, urged the Government to introduce these vaccines into the national antenatal system, highlighting the potential to drastically reduce infant illness and mortality. He also pointed to ongoing research at institutions such as the Navrongo Health Research Centre, which is expected to provide more data on RSV prevalence in Ghana.
“Prevention through immunisation is the safest and most effective strategy. We must act before infections occur,” Mr. Bawa said, calling for stronger collaboration between the Government, health institutions, media, and communities to make maternal immunisation a routine part of maternal healthcare in Ghana.
The study underscores the critical role of antenatal clinics not just as points of care for mothers, but as lifelines for the health and survival of newborns, offering a practical avenue for introducing life-saving vaccines in Ghana.
