RSV vaccine to be offered to premature babies in Northern Ireland

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A new vaccination programme aimed at combatting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is set to be expanded in order to include premature babies born in Northern Ireland. Starting this autumn, eligible children will have access to a long-acting injection to help protect against RSV, a highly infectious respiratory virus that primarily affects the respiratory system, particularly in young children and older adults. RSV is a prevalent virus, with 90% of children being infected by the age of two and it is a major cause of hospitalisation in infants during their first year of life.

Pregnant women in Northern Ireland have been able to receive the RSV vaccine since last September, beginning at 28 weeks of pregnancy. The new phase of the programme will now encompass infants who were born very prematurely and did not have the opportunity to benefit from the RSV vaccination administered to their mothers. The single Nirsevimab injection is expected to provide approximately 80% protection, replacing Palivizumab, which offers 55% protection and requires multiple administrations. The decision to extend the vaccination programme follows guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

In response to the decline in the uptake of childhood immunisations, Chief Medical Officer Sir Michael McBride emphasized the importance of vaccinations in eradicating diseases and safeguarding children and other vulnerable populations from severe illnesses and fatalities. Highlighting the critical role that vaccinations play in children’s health and well-being, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt noted that the introduction of the new vaccine would enhance the health service’s readiness for winter and help alleviate the strain on general practitioners, emergency departments, and hospital admissions. The aim is to ensure that children are adequately protected and equipped to lead healthy lives

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