Madrid allocates 10.6 million for respiratory syncytial virus vaccines

The Community of Madrid will invest in 49,000 doses to protect newborns and infants during the upcoming autumn season.

Close-up of a baby's hand holding an adult's finger, with a blurred background and warm light.
IA

Close-up of a baby's hand holding an adult's finger, with a blurred background and warm light.

The Community of Madrid has approved an investment exceeding 10.6 million euros for the acquisition of 49,000 doses of immunization against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), aiming to protect newborns and infants during the upcoming autumn season.

This initiative seeks to prevent severe illnesses such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, which particularly affect infants in their early months of life. The vaccination strategy will be implemented in two phases, adapting to the age and birth date of the children.
Babies born between April 1 and September 30 of this year, who are under six months old, will receive the dose in October. Administration will be carried out by appointment at nine key hospitals within the Madrilenian Health Service network, including 12 de Octubre, Niño Jesús, Gregorio Marañón, and La Paz in the capital, as well as hospitals in Majadahonda, Arganda del Rey, Móstoles, Parla, and Coslada.
For infants born between October 1 of this year and March 31, 2027, coinciding with peak virus circulation periods, immunization will be administered directly in maternity wards before hospital discharge. This measure ensures that newborns are protected during the season of highest RSV transmission.
The Community of Madrid was a pioneer in Spain three years ago in implementing this immunization. Accumulated data indicate remarkable effectiveness, with a 90% reduction in infant hospital admissions due to virus-associated pathologies, particularly bronchiolitis, according to the regional administration.
During the 2025/26 campaign, 90% of the target population received this protection, a success that the Regional Government attributes to the program's effective functioning and positive acceptance among Madrid families.
Additionally, the Community of Madrid permanently provides RSV protection for individuals over 80 years old at all its vaccination centers, recognizing this group as particularly vulnerable to complications from the infection.
The expansion of this immunization coverage responds to the need to reinforce prevention for the upcoming RSV circulation season, when the virus shows higher incidence and can cause severe respiratory complications in the most vulnerable population groups.