Northern Ireland to Offer RSV Vaccine to Premature Babies This Autumn

In a significant public health advancement, Northern Ireland will begin offering a long-acting injection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to babies born very prematurely starting this autumn. This initiative targets infants who are too young to benefit from the RSV vaccine administered to pregnant women.

RSV is a common respiratory virus that can lead to severe lung infections like bronchiolitis, particularly dangerous for young babies. It stands as the leading infectious cause of hospitalizations among infants in the UK and worldwide. The introduction of this vaccine aims to reduce these hospital admissions and alleviate pressure on healthcare services during the winter months.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt emphasized the importance of this program, stating, "The risk of contracting RSV for children born very prematurely in their first winter is extremely serious and has a significant impact on our health service each year. My Department has approved using this new vaccine in line with the approach being taken across the other UK nations." ([health-ni.gov.uk](https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/vulnerable-babies-be-offered-first-long-acting-injection-common-winter-virus?utm_source=openai))

The vaccine, known as Nirsevimab, offers over 80% protection against RSV and is administered as a single injection, providing coverage throughout the RSV season from September to February. This marks a significant improvement over the previous treatment, Palivizumab, which required multiple doses and offered lower protection rates. ([health-ni.gov.uk](https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/vulnerable-babies-be-offered-first-long-acting-injection-common-winter-virus?utm_source=openai))

Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Michael McBride highlighted the vaccine's role in safeguarding vulnerable infants, noting, "RSV is a potentially serious virus, particularly for very young babies. Vaccinations have been extremely effective in eradicating diseases and protecting children and other vulnerable groups from serious illness and death." ([health-ni.gov.uk](https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/vulnerable-babies-be-offered-first-long-acting-injection-common-winter-virus?utm_source=openai))

This initiative follows the successful rollout of the RSV vaccination program for pregnant women and adults aged 75-79 years old last year. By extending protection to premature infants, health officials aim to further strengthen Northern Ireland's preparedness for the upcoming winter season.

Parents and guardians of eligible infants are encouraged to take advantage of this vaccination program to help protect their babies from serious illness. The Department of Health will provide further details on the rollout in the coming months.

For more information on the RSV vaccination program and eligibility criteria, individuals are advised to consult their healthcare providers or visit the Public Health Agency's official website.