FREE RSV Baby Immunisation
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes respiratory infection in children and adults.
The risk of severe infection is highest in the youngest infants, especially those born during the RSV season.
Among babies in Ireland, each winter:
1 in 2 gets RSV - many need medical care from their GP or an emergency department (ED)
4 out of 100 are hospitalised due to RSV - some need special treatment in intensive care units
We will offer free RSV immunisation to:
newborn babies born during RSV season - from early September 2025 until end of February 2026
babies aged six months or less at the start of RSV season - appointments will be available during September until the first week in October 2025
premature babies (born before 30 weeks gestation or less than 1.25kg at birth) and other higher risk infants (due to underlying medical conditions) born during RSV season
Getting your baby immunised
How you can get your baby immunised depends on when they are born.
Babies born between 1 September 2025 and 28 February 2026
If you choose to have your baby immunised against RSV, a healthcare provider will do this in the maternity hospital soon after they are born or, they can get RSV immunisation when they go for their 2 or 6 week check with our nurse in the clinic.
Babies born between 1 March 2025 and 31 August 2025
You can book an appointment with the nurse in the clinic to have your baby immunised against RSV.
Book appointments early to protect your child ahead of any surge in RSV infections.
Alternatively you can book directly with the HSE here