HSE urges Mayo parents of eligible babies to take up free RSV immunisation
The HSE is encouraging parents to protect their babies against RSV this winter as the 2026-2027 RSV Infant Immunisation Programme starts from Tuesday, September 1.
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).
For the 2026-2027 programme: Babies born between September 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, will be offered RSV immunisation in maternity hospitals before they go home, where possible; babies born between March 1 and August 31, 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 McNamara, 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.
“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. A total of 88% of babies born September to February 2026 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 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 here.