News
August 26, 2025
Parents of infants under six months urged to book RSV jab
Babies born between March 1 and August 31 this year will be eligible for a jab to protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – but appointments are available for only a few weeks, the HSE has warned.
Parents of infants under six months are being strongly encouraged to book their babies in for a potentially life-saving RSV jab, as the Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a timely reminder about the limited window of opportunity. The call to action focuses on babies born between March 1st and August 31st of this year, who are now eligible for a vaccination designed to protect them against the respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, for infants, especially those under six months old, it can lead to severe illnesses such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia. In some cases, RSV can require hospitalization and even intensive care.
The HSE is emphasizing the urgency of booking appointments because the vaccination program is only running for a few weeks. This limited availability is due to the specific timing required to provide optimal protection to the most vulnerable infants during the peak RSV season. Parents are advised to contact their family doctor or local clinic as soon as possible to secure an appointment for their child. Delaying could mean missing out on this crucial opportunity to safeguard their baby's health.
"RSV can be a serious threat to young babies," a spokesperson for the HSE stated. "This vaccination offers a significant level of protection and can prevent severe illness and hospitalization. We urge all parents of eligible infants to take advantage of this program and book their appointment without delay."
The HSE also highlighted that the vaccine is safe and effective and has been rigorously tested. Healthcare professionals are available to answer any questions or concerns parents may have about the vaccination. Information leaflets are also available online and at participating clinics. Parents are encouraged to seek out reliable information to make an informed decision about their baby's health. With RSV season approaching, protecting infants with this preventative measure is a top priority for public health officials.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, for infants, especially those under six months old, it can lead to severe illnesses such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia. In some cases, RSV can require hospitalization and even intensive care.
The HSE is emphasizing the urgency of booking appointments because the vaccination program is only running for a few weeks. This limited availability is due to the specific timing required to provide optimal protection to the most vulnerable infants during the peak RSV season. Parents are advised to contact their family doctor or local clinic as soon as possible to secure an appointment for their child. Delaying could mean missing out on this crucial opportunity to safeguard their baby's health.
"RSV can be a serious threat to young babies," a spokesperson for the HSE stated. "This vaccination offers a significant level of protection and can prevent severe illness and hospitalization. We urge all parents of eligible infants to take advantage of this program and book their appointment without delay."
The HSE also highlighted that the vaccine is safe and effective and has been rigorously tested. Healthcare professionals are available to answer any questions or concerns parents may have about the vaccination. Information leaflets are also available online and at participating clinics. Parents are encouraged to seek out reliable information to make an informed decision about their baby's health. With RSV season approaching, protecting infants with this preventative measure is a top priority for public health officials.
Category:
Politics