The Madrid community is preparing for the fall and winter with a vaccination plan that covers several key aspects. Starting October 1 next year, the region will begin immunizing infants under six months old against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants. In addition, traditional influenza vaccination campaigns will be carried out, which this year will be expanded to children aged 4 years and 11 months. Finally, a third booster dose against Covid-19 will be given to high-risk groups.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine
RSV vaccination will begin on October 1 for babies born on or after April 1 this year. For those born between April 1 and September 30, appointments will be made at five public hospitals through a self-service appointment system. People born between October 1 and March 31 should receive immunization in the maternity ward of public hospitals before discharge or by making an appointment on their own.
The Autonomous Community of Madrid invested 10.8 million euros to purchase 50,000 doses of RSV vaccine, which causes bronchiolitis and pneumonia. This seasonal pathogen affects infants more frequently and reaches its peak prevalence between December and January.
New beneficiaries of the 2023/2024 influenza campaign
The next influenza campaign will cover children aged 6 months to 4 years 11 months for the first time. The campaign will start in the second half of October and will target adults over 60 and high-risk groups such as people with chronic diseases, pregnant women, health professionals and social health workers.
Vaccinations will be carried out in health centres, local clinics, the Town Hall Health Center, the Vaccination Center of the Autonomous Community of Madrid and other authorized points, including nursing homes.
Third booster dose for Covid-19
The third booster dose against Covid-19 will be given at the same time as the flu vaccination campaign begins. It will target high-risk groups such as people over 60, people with chronic diseases and social health workers. The latest data shows a continued rise in cases, underscoring the importance of this measure.
The Madrid community is preparing to face the autumn and winter seasons with a complete vaccination strategy to protect people from multiple health threats.
