HSE in Cork and Kerry to expand its RSV immunisation programme

The HSE’s South-West branch has announced it will be expanding its winter programme to protect babies from RSV.

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common virus that causes coughs and colds, and is the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in very young children.

The initiative builds 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. It significantly reduced infections, serious illness, and hospitalisations of young infants during the winter season. Key statistics from the national programme showed that 83% of those offered immunisation accepted it for their babies, with almost 22,000 immunised.

When compared to the previous year, data showed a significant decrease in the impact of RSV among those who were immunised.

Programme completions last year saw a 65% reduction in the total number of cases presenting, a 57% reduction in cases presenting to emergency departments, a 76% reduction in babies requiring hospitalisation, and a 65% reduction in babies needing intensive care due to complications of RSV.

HSE South-West will once again offer RSV immunisation in maternity settings across Cork and Kerry from September 1 to February 28.

The programme will be extending to include all babies born in Ireland, during the six month period from March 1 to August 31.

A spokesperson for HSE South-West said that it is important to note that appointments will only be available during September with parents and guardians advised to book in advance to ensure their child is protected ahead of any RSV surges. Dr Niamh Bambury, a consultant in public health medicine at HSE South-West said that RSV is a “largely seasonal respiratory illness that particularly impacts babies and infants”.

“During the winter months, we expect to see an increase in the circulation of RSV.

“The RSV vaccine is the best way to prevent the illness — [it] protects babies during the critical early months when they are most vulnerable,” said Dr Bambury

The immunisation is provided free of charge and is being delivered by trained midwives in all maternity settings after birth.

Appointments can be booked from September 1 online at hse.ie.