Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) 

Puglia Region has launched an immunisation campaign to prevent infections from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). 

About the virus 

RSV is an infectious microorganism that can cause severe acute respiratory infections in infants under one year of age, especially in the first six months of life, with a higher incidence between November and March, including bronchiolitis and pneumonia      

Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that affects the small airways of a child’s lungs. Within a few days, the infection can cause inflammation with increased production of mucus and obstruction of the airways, possibly leading to breathing difficulties. 

Younger children – newborns or infants – are at greater risk of developing a more severe form of the disease. Many studies have now established that RSV infection in infants is linked to the development of asthma in later years. 

 

In 2024, there were 408 hospital admissions for RSV infections in Puglia, of which 385 for bronchiolitis and 15 for pneumonia. In 2023, there were 499 hospital admissions, of which 461 for bronchiolitis and 28 for pneumonia. Ninety-three per cent of all hospital admissions involved infants aged less than one year.  

How to prevent the infection 

Infection from RSV can be prevented by administering the monoclonal antibody called Nirsevimab, as a single intramuscular dose to provide passive immunisation against the virus and significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Target group

The monoclonal antibody is offered free of charge primarily to infants born between 1 November 2024 and 31 March 2025, on a voluntary basis. 

In addition to infants, the vaccine can also be administered to children born between 1 June 2024 and the start date of the regional campaign.  

 

The drug is administered to infants:   

01

born between October and March, at the public or private maternity facilities accredited by the regional health service

02

born between October and March who were not immunised at the maternity facility, at the relevant local health authority vaccination centre or by a family paediatrician, by direct call or at the earliest opportunity

03

born between April and September, at the local health authority's vaccination centre or by the family paediatrician, preferably before the start of the epidemic season (October-March).

Immunization campaign against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Puglia Region is promoting an immunization campaign against RSV, which can cause severe acute respiratory illnesses in infants during their first months of life. A single dose significantly reduces the risk of infection. Infections are more common between October and March.

Neonatology Map

Protect your newborn. Discover prevention centers where he or she can receive immunization against Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Move from one icon to another and enjoy a continuous journey through all the opportunities for the health of your loved people