Health · Medical Research · 2 hrs ago
RSV vaccination linked to a sharp fall in infant hospital admissions abroad
Studies abroad link RSV prevention shots to fewer infant hospital admissions.
RSV can cause cold-like symptoms, but it can also lead to serious illnesses such as pneumonia in babies and older people.
Research has found infant admissions fell by more than 75% after RSV prevention vaccination was introduced in other countries.
South Korea approved an RSV vaccine for pregnant women in August, but the shots are not part of its national vaccination program.
People who get the vaccine in South Korea must pay the cost themselves.
Debate is growing over whether the government should provide support, but no decision on national funding is stated.
Studies from abroad have reported that infant hospital admissions fell by more than 75% after RSV prevention measures were introduced.
South Korea approved an RSV vaccine for pregnant women in August.
The vaccine is not included in South Korea’s national immunisation programme, so recipients must pay the cost themselves.
The reports have fuelled discussion about government support for RSV vaccination.
RSV can cause cold-like symptoms but may lead to serious respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia, in young children and older people.
- Who
- Infants are the subject of the reported fall in hospital admissions. South Korea has approved an RSV vaccine for pregnant women.
- What
- Studies abroad have reported infant hospital admissions fell by more than 75% after RSV prevention measures were introduced.
- When
- The vaccine for pregnant women was approved in South Korea last August. The article was published on November 14, 2026.
- Where
- South Korea and unspecified locations abroad.
- Why
- RSV can cause serious respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia, in infants and older people.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
South Korea approved an RSV vaccine for pregnant women.
Studies reported that infant hospital admissions fell by more than 75%.
- Reported reduction
- More than 75% in infant hospital admissions
- Vaccine approved
- RSV vaccine for pregnant women
- Approval timing
- Last August
- National programme status
- RSV vaccination is not included in South Korea’s national immunisation programme
- RSV risks
- Can cause pneumonia and other serious respiratory illnesses in young children and older people