Andalucia has been hailed as having one of Europe’s most advanced vaccination programmes.
Its latest campaign against a potentially dangerous respiratory virus will prevent an estimated eight in ten hospitalisations among babies who receive protection.
The Junta de Andalucia says its immunisation schedule is among the most comprehensive in Spain, a position supported by the Spanish Association of Paediatrics’ vaccine advisory committee.
The regional government points to vaccines and immunisations that are not yet universally funded elsewhere in the country, broader eligibility across age groups and earlier protection against certain diseases.
One example is its campaign against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the leading cause of bronchiolitis in infants.
Launched on September 21, the programme aims to protect more than 55,000 babies across Andalucia this winter.
Within its first 10 days, around 17,000 infants had already received protection, representing a 15% increase on the same period last year.
The previous campaign achieved an impressive 96% uptake among eligible babies.
Cutting hospital admissions by 80%
According to Spain’s Ministry of Health, immunisation against RSV has demonstrated effectiveness of around 80% in preventing hospital admissions, although results vary between studies and seasons.
Andalucia first introduced the treatment in 2023.
Unlike conventional vaccines, the injection uses a monoclonal antibody called nirsevimab, which provides ready-made protection against the virus.
Pharmacist and public health expert Raquel Carnero said the results demonstrate the importance of preventative healthcare, particularly when fewer hospital admissions mean more beds and resources are available for other patients.
She also praised Andalucia’s high immunisation rates, describing them as significant advances in protecting children’s health.
However, Carnero stressed that an effective vaccination programme requires more than simply offering treatments, including accessible appointments, reliable supplies and sufficient healthcare professionals.
The regional government maintains that its comprehensive approach places Andalucia among Europe’s leading regions for publicly funded immunisation.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
