Brazil's SBIm launches nationwide RSV immunization campaign

The Sociedade Brasileira de Imunizações (SBIm) has launched the "Todos contra o VSR – Proteção desde o Início" campaign to raise awareness among pregnant women and the general public about immunisation against the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is responsible for about 80% of bronchiolitis cases and up to 60% of pneumonia in children under two years old. The Ministry of Health reported 21,398 cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by RSV this year, including 17,081 cases and 109 deaths in the under‑two age group, with a total of 246 deaths.

The campaign promotes two main protective measures: vaccination of pregnant women, which transfers antibodies to the fetus, and the use of monoclonal antibodies for newborns, especially pre‑term infants and other high‑risk groups. It features video testimonies from Dr. Dráuzio Varella and mothers, video lessons for health professionals, a dedicated website, and active outreach on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and WhatsApp. The National Immunisation Programme already provides the vaccine to pregnant women from the 28th week of gestation and monoclonal antibodies to pre‑term infants up to six months and to children under two with certain comorbidities. The initiative aims to protect infants during the first months of life, when the risk of severe disease is highest.