HSE encourages parents of eligible babies to take up free RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) immunisation this winter in HSE Dublin and South East

The HSE is encouraging parents to protect their babies against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) this winter as 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). RSV can cause serious illness particularly in young babies. The immunisation prevents >80% of hospitalisations associated with RSV. The immunisation is free, safe and effective.

Who will be offered RSV immunisation?

Where your baby receives RSV immunisation depends on when they were born.

For the 2026-2027 programme:

• Babies born between 1 September 2026 and 28 February 2027 will be offered RSV immunisation in maternity hospitals before they go home, where possible.
• Babies born between 1 March and 31 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 Ciara Carroll, Specialist Registrar in Public Health Medicine, HSE Dublin and South East: "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.

“Over the last two years, RSV immunisation has made a significant difference in Ireland, helping to reduce the number of babies who become seriously unwell and need hospital care because of RSV. International evidence shows that the immunisation is more than 80% effective in preventing RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections, helping to keep babies healthy and out of hospital."

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.

For more information about RSV immunisation and eligibility, visit HSE.ie/RSV.