HSE encourages parents of eligible babies to take up free RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) immunisation ahead of the expected seasonal virus increase

The HSE is encouraging parents to protect their babies against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) this winter. The 2026-2027 RSV Infant Immunisation Programme is underway. Free RSV immunisation will be offered to eligible babies through maternity hospitals and participating GP practices, helping to protect them from serious illness caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Where your baby receives RSV immunisation depends on when they were born.
For the 2026-2027 programme:

• Babies born between 1st September 2026 and 28th February 2027 will be offered RSV immunisation in maternity hospitals before they go home, where possible
• Babies born between 1st March and 31st August 2026 can receive RSV immunisation through participating GP practices
• Eligible babies at higher risk of serious RSV illness will be offered immunisation through a specialist pathway

Dr Áine Mc Namara, Regional Director of Public Health HSE West and North West said, "RSV is a common seasonal virus during autumn and winter, but it can be particularly serious for some young babies. The RSV immunisation programme provides protection from the outset and continues throughout the season, helping to keep babies safe when RSV is circulating most widely. It is best to get the immunisation as early as possible in the RSV season to protect your baby throughout autumn & winter."

“Over the last two years, RSV immunisation has had a significant positive impact in Ireland, it has reduced the number of babies who become very unwell with RSV and require hospitalisation. International evidence suggests that immunisation is over 80% effective at preventing RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections."

Last winter, more than 37,000 infants were immunised against RSV. 88% of babies born September to February received the immunisation in maternity hospitals, and the uptake rate among high-risk infants was 100%.

The programme reduced RSV-related hospitalisations by 70% among babies born during the RSV season. Across both eligible groups, infant immunisation is estimated to have averted over 1,000 ED presentations, hospitalisations and ICU admissions, significantly reducing the burden of RSV illness among infants in Ireland.

Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners said, “We would encourage parents of babies who were born between March and August to take up the offer through participating GP practices ideally before the RSV season. RSV immunisation can be given safely alongside routine childhood vaccines, meaning parents do not need to delay their baby’s scheduled vaccinations”

“Parents who have questions about RSV immunisation should speak to their healthcare professional, who can provide trusted information and advice.”

RSV is a common and highly contagious winter virus. While it usually causes mild respiratory illness, it can cause serious illness in babies and young children, particularly during their first winter. RSV immunisation is provided through a single dose of Nirsevimab, which gives babies immediate protection during the RSV season and helps protect against severe RSV infection and hospitalisation.