The Community of Madrid will increase its investment by 50% for protection against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a primary cause of illnesses like bronchiolitis and certain severe pneumonias, particularly among individuals over 80 years old. The regional government approved an investment of 18.5 million euros in its latest Council of Government to purchase 170,000 doses, which is 70,000 more doses than the previous year.
The region has become the first to incorporate this immunization for citizens over 80 years old starting in 2026. This measure, driven by the General Directorate of Public Health, was already being applied since 2025 to individuals over 60 living in residences and vulnerable adults, and is administered year-round.
In total, between September of the previous year and June of the current one, 154,237 vaccines have been provided to adults. The estimated coverage for the target population of 80 years and over is around 30%.
The decision to extend protection to the adult population against RSV was made after observing its success in infants under one year old since the 2023/24 season, achieving a reduction of approximately 90% in hospital admissions.
