Starting today, babies can get an injection against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The injection protects babies against severe illness resulting from the virus. The RSV antibody injection offers almost immediate protection, lasting about 6 months.
The injection against RSV has been added to the National Immunisation Programme and is given to babies born on or after 1 April 2025.
RSV
RSV causes respiratory infections, such as nasal colds. RSV infections are mainly seen in autumn and winter. The virus can be dangerous, especially for young babies. They could develop shortness of breath or pneumonia. Between 1,500 and 3,000 babies end up in hospital every year as a result of RSV.
When?
Babies receive the injection just before or during autumn and winter, because that is when RSV is most common. The timing of the injection depends on when the baby is born:
- Babies born from 1 April through 30 September will receive the vaccination in September or October.
- Babies born from 1 October through 31 March will receive the vaccination within 2 weeks after being born.
Parents will receive information from the obstetric care provider, at the well-baby clinic, or from RIVM. The well-baby clinic will arrange the appointment for the injection against RSV.