Share
26th August 2024
01:15pm BST
Parents of newborns born between September 2024 and February 2025 will be offered free RSV immunisation.
The immunisation will be provided to newborns in a bid to protect them from RSV.
RSV cases have been rising at a concerning rate every winter in Ireland, but experts believe nirsevimab is the best way to protect them from the virus.
According to the HSE, "You will be offered free RSV immunisation for your baby if they are born between September 2024 and February 2025.
"This immunisation is called nirsevimab. It is the best way to protect your newborn baby from RSV," the HSE added.
The immunisation will also be offered to premature babies born before 30 weeks or those who weigh less than 1.25kg at birth.
The respiratory syncytial virus is most common in Ireland during the winter months.
Many children have been admitted to hospital with the virus, especially in recent years.
It causes a respiratory infection in children and adults but can be more severe in infants or those with underlying conditions.
"The risk of severe infection is highest in the youngest infants, especially those born during the RSV season in winter," the HSE explains.
One in every two newborn babies will get RSV, with many needing medical care from their GP or emergency department.
According to stats from the HSE, four out of 100 newborns are hospitalised because of RSV. They may need special treatment in intensive care units.
The immunisation will be given to your infant as soon as they're born. It will be administered in the maternity hospital where they are born.
The HSE confirmed that nirsevimab will be administered as an injection into your newborn's leg.
Nirsevimab gives the antibodies directly to your baby and will work straight away. Your infant will be protected as soon as they're immunised.
They will only need one injection and it will protect them throughout their first winter.
The HSE stressed, "Nirsevimab does not affect other medicines or vaccines that your baby will get. It can be given at the same time as other injections."
Nirsevimab does not contain RSV and cannot cause RSV-related illness.
Your baby will be monitored following the injection but side effects are not common.
Some may experience redness of the skin where your baby got the injection, a temperature, or a rash.
Top Story
You don’t have to give up booze entirely Most of us enjoy a drink every now and again, and some of us probably enjoy a drink slightly more often than this. The NHS recommends that adults don’t drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, which is the equivalent of about seven or eight pints of normal strength […]
18h
You don’t have to give up booze entirely Most of us enjoy a drink every now and again, and some of us probably enjoy a drink slightly more often than this. The NHS recommends that adults don’t drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week, which is the equivalent of about seven or eight pints of normal strength […]
Health
18h
Christmas can be a difficult time for many, especially those with eating disorders. While Christmas can be a happy time for some, many people dread the festive period and feel anxious as the holidays approach. This is particularly true if you or a loved one is experiencing an eating disorder. Around this time of year, […]
Health
1 week ago
How have I never thought about this before? An autopsy technician has revealed what happens if you die with a tampon still inside you. For many of us, the idea of having a tampon left in for eternity is a pretty scary thought. However, an autopsy technician has now revealed what actually happens if you […]
Health
1 week ago
Should the mandatory waiting period for abortions in Ireland be scrapped? The Irish Family Planning Association has confirmed there’s no scientific support behind the mandatory abortion waiting period. The IFPA revealed that 98% of their clients went on to have an abortion after an initial consultation with the IFPA between 2021 and 2024. In Ireland, […]
Health
2 weeks ago
‘It’s great for small spaces’ A ‘superb’ exercise bike that’s perfect for smaller spaces has been given a huge 48% discount for a limited time. Usually priced at €205.02, shoppers can bag the folding exercise bike for €106.49 as part of the limited time discount. There’s a handy price tracking website called Camelcamelcamel which lets you see how […]
Health
2 weeks ago
The perfect gifts for the fitness guru in your life This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on any sales generated from it. If you’re still in the middle of your Christmas shopping, then Gym Plus Coffee is one place you need to check out, especially if you have a fitness-obsessed friend […]
Health
3 weeks ago
Over 40% of women had caesarean sections in 2024, HSE confirms
Health
1 month ago
