HSE extends very successful programme which protects babies from RSV in winter
The HSE is building on last winter’s very successful RSV immunisation programme which was delivered to new born babies in maternity settings and higher risk babies in the community. The programme significantly reduced infections, serious illness and hospitalisations.
Headline statistics from the programme include:
- Almost 22,500 babies were immunised.
- 83% of those offered immunisation accepted it for their babies
- Among those immunised (compared to similar babies the previous year who were not immunised), there was a significant decrease in the impact of RSV including:
- 65% reduction in total number of cases
- 57% reduction in cases presenting to emergency departments
- 76% reduction in babies requiring hospitalisation
- 65% reduction in babies needing intensive care due to complications of RSV
This winter season, the HSE will once again offer RSV immunisation in maternity settings to all babies born in Ireland from 1st September 2025 to 28th February 2026 as well as extending the programme to all babies in Ireland born in the six month period from 1st March 2025 to 31st August 2025 across various community sites.
Every winter RSV infection causes hospitalisations, including some serious illness, especially among young infants.
Parents of babies born from 1st March to 31st August can book an appointment at a local community site from Monday 25th August on the RSV Immunisation page of the HSE website https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/rsv/immunisation/
It is important to note that appointments will only be available from 1st September and until first week in October 2025. Parents and guardians are advised to book early to ensure their child is protected ahead of any surge in RSV infections later in the autumn/winter.
Parents of babies born from 1st September to 28th February 2026 will be offered the immunisation before they leave the maternity hospital.