HSE urges parents to protect babies against RSV
The HSE has launched its 2026-2027 infant immunisation programme to shield eligible babies from respiratory syncytial virus this winter. The initiative, active across Dublin and the South East, offers free, effective protection through maternity hospitals and GP practices.
Immunisation eligibility and delivery
The location for immunisation depends on the baby’s birth month. Babies born from September to February typically receive the vaccine in maternity hospitals, while those born between March and August are encouraged to be immunised at participating GP clinics before the RSV season intensifies.
Dr Ciara Carroll, Specialist Registrar in Public Health Medicine for HSE Dublin and South East, emphasised the importance of early vaccination: "RSV is a common seasonal virus during autumn and winter, but for some young babies it can cause serious illness. The RSV immunisation programme helps protect babies during the months when RSV is most widespread, providing protection throughout the season. We encourage parents to have their baby immunised as early as possible so they can benefit from that protection throughout autumn and winter."
She added that over the past two years, RSV immunisation has significantly reduced the number of infants requiring hospital care due to this virus, with international studies confirming over 80% effectiveness in preventing severe lower respiratory tract infections.
Impact and advice for parents
Last winter, more than 37,000 infants received the immunisation, with an 88% uptake among babies born September to February in maternity hospitals and full uptake among high-risk infants. The programme successfully lowered hospital admissions by 70% among babies born during the RSV season, preventing over 1,000 emergency department visits, hospitalisations, and intensive care admissions.
Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners encouraged parents of babies born from March to August to avail of the vaccine at their GP practice before the RSV season begins. He also reassured that the RSV vaccine can be administered safely alongside routine childhood immunisations, so no delays are necessary.
Parents seeking further information or guidance on RSV immunisation should consult their healthcare professionals for reliable advice.
RSV is a highly contagious virus prevalent in winter, often causing mild respiratory symptoms but potentially leading to severe illness in young children during their first winter. The immunisation consists of a single dose of Nirsevimab, providing immediate and effective protection throughout the RSV season.
For comprehensive details on eligibility and the immunisation programme, visit the official HSE webpage at HSE.ie/RSV.