Argentina expands RSV vaccination as respiratory illnesses surge

Health authorities in Argentina are responding to a surge in respiratory illnesses, particularly driven by the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). In Neuquén, pediatric consultations for respiratory diseases increased by 187% between epidemiological weeks 30 and 35, rising from 561 to 1,612 cases. Health Minister Martín Regueiro noted that this second peak, following an initial influenza-driven wave, has extended the seasonal impact beyond typical expectations.

In response to the situation, the Ministry of Health of Córdoba has extended vaccination deadlines to bolster protection against lower acute respiratory infections. The deadline for RSV vaccination for pregnant individuals has been extended to September 30. Additionally, the administration of the Nirsevimab antibody for prioritized infant populations will remain available until September 15. The maternal vaccination program aims to transfer protective antibodies to infants via the placenta, while Nirsevimab is designated for infants born under specific risk conditions or those whose mothers did not receive prior immunization.