The Health Service Executive is rolling out its free winter immunisation programme for respiratory syncytial virus, aiming to protect infants from serious illness as the seasonal virus begins circulating. The initiative offers a single dose of Nirsevimab to eligible babies across maternity hospitals and participating GP practices, building on a previous effort that health officials report reduced hospitalisations by 70% among infants born during the RSV season.
HSE Rollout Details for Autumn and Winter
Where an infant receives the immunisation depends entirely on their birth date. According to HSE guidelines for the winter programme, babies born between September 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, receive the single dose in maternity hospitals before discharge, where possible. Infants born between March 1 and August 31, 2026, receive the immunisation through participating GP practices. Eligible babies identified at higher risk of severe RSV illness are directed through a specialist pathway.
Dr Áine Mc Namara, Regional Director of Public Health HSE West and North West, stated that the virus is a common seasonal threat during autumn and winter that can turn particularly serious for 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,” Dr Mc Namara said, adding that early administration offers the best defense.
Impact and Uptake Data from Prior Seasons
Health authorities point to strong uptake and measurable impact from the previous winter season to highlight the programme's value. Last winter, more than 37,000 infants received an RSV immunisation in Ireland. Uptake reached 88% among babies born between September and February in maternity hospitals, while the uptake rate among high-risk infants hit 100%.
Official data indicates that the intervention reduced RSV-related hospitalisations by 70% among babies born during the season. Across both eligible groups, health officials estimate the immunisation averted over 1,000 emergency department presentations, hospital admissions, and intensive care unit admissions.
GP Recommendations and Vaccine Scheduling
Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners advised parents of babies born between March and August to arrange the immunisation through their GP ideally before the peak of the virus season. Dr Kelly noted that the single-dose Nirsevimab treatment can be administered safely alongside routine childhood vaccines, meaning parents do not need to delay scheduled appointments.
International evidence suggests the immunisation is over 80% effective at preventing lower respiratory tract infections associated with RSV. Parents seeking guidance on eligibility or scheduling can consult healthcare professionals or visit HSE.ie/RSV for further details.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant RSV Protection
Is the RSV immunisation free for all eligible babies in Ireland?
Yes. The HSE provides the RSV immunisation free of charge through maternity hospitals, participating GP practices, and specialist pathways for high-risk infants.
How is the RSV immunisation administered?
Eligible babies receive a single dose of Nirsevimab, which provides immediate protection during the RSV season against severe infection and hospitalisation.
Can my baby receive the RSV immunisation alongside other routine vaccines?
Yes. Dr Patrick Kelly of the Irish College of General Practitioners confirms that the RSV immunisation can be given safely alongside routine childhood vaccines without delaying scheduled doses.
Where should my baby receive the immunisation if they were born in summer?
Babies born between March 1 and August 31 can receive their immunisation through participating GP practices, ideally before the seasonal circulation of the virus.
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