RSV Vaccine Significantly Reduces ICU Admissions for Infants in the Netherlands

A new vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is having a substantial impact on infant health in the Netherlands, leading to a dramatic decrease in hospitalizations and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, according to recent data from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).

Dramatic Drop in ICU Cases

The number of infants admitted to ICUs with RSV has fallen sharply in recent months. Last season, 178 babies were hospitalized with RSV; currently, that number is 43. This represents a nearly three-quarters reduction in ICU admissions attributed to the RSV vaccine RIVM.

How the RSV Immunization Works

The immunization administered to Dutch infants isn’t a traditional vaccine, but rather provides pre-formed antibodies against the virus. This means the baby’s immune system doesn’t need to develop antibodies from scratch, offering immediate protection for approximately six months. A similar approach involves vaccinating pregnant women, allowing them to pass antibodies to their babies via the placenta, also providing around six months of protection.

Vaccination Schedule and Eligibility

Currently, babies in the Netherlands receive the RSV immunization within two weeks of birth. For the 2025-2026 RSV season, the shot is available for children born up to and including the end of March. Babies born after that date will be offered the immunization in September or October, just before the start of the RSV season RIVM.

Mild Side Effects

The RIVM reports that the RSV immunization generally has very few side effects, due to the pre-formed antibodies. Possible side effects include swelling or redness at the injection site, rash, or fever, which typically resolve on their own. Parents should contact a doctor if a baby younger than three months develops a fever after receiving the shot RIVM.

European Context and Prior Recommendations

The Netherlands implemented the RSV immunization following recommendations from the Health Council in early 2024. Other European countries, including Belgium, Portugal, and Spain, introduced the immunization more quickly, experiencing an 80 percent decrease in hospital admissions in those regions. The success in these countries helped inform the Dutch rollout.

RSV: A Serious Threat to Infants

While RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in older children and adults, it can be dangerous for young infants. The virus can lead to severe shortness of breath or pneumonia. Worldwide, RSV is the second leading cause of infant mortality, after malaria.

Ongoing Monitoring and Research

The RIVM continues to monitor the impact of the RSV immunization program and will conduct further research to fully understand its long-term effects. The institute notes that high parental uptake of the vaccine is contributing to its success, as many parents are aware of the potential severity of RSV infection UMC Utrecht.