As of this Tuesday, June 3, all pregnant women who have between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation will be able to go to the Ebáis or medical center to receive the vaccine against the respiratory virus syncitial (VRS).
According to health authorities, the syncitial virus is a disease that generates millions of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths in young children every year.
The campaign is led by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), together with the Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
“This is the first time this vaccine is applied in the country and is directed exclusively to pregnant women to protect babies who are about June 2025 and February 2026,” authorities said.
Observe more: Costa Rica monitors possible mutations of the syncitial virus before the start of vaccination
Protection from the belly
“The goal is for newborns to be immunized during their first six months of life, a stage in which they are especially vulnerable,” said Roberto Arroba, of the Health Surveillance Department.
Exceptionally, some pregnant women who do not have 32 weeks could receive the dose with a medical note that justifies it.
Protection is achieved through Passive immunization of the fetusthanks to the antibodies that move from the mother to the baby in gestation. This not only prevents a possible serious infection in the child, but also protects the mother.
“Maternal immunization is an exceptional opportunity to protect women and children who have high morbidity and mortality,” said Rosario Espinoza, an immunologist at the Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia hospital.
(Courtesy photo/CCSS).
50,200 doses available
CCSS acquired 50,200 doses, with an approximate investment of $ 2.5 million. The individual cost of the vaccine is $ 50, and the institution plans to cover 100% of the pregnant population that meets the established criteria.
“All pregnant women were thought,” said Elvis Delgado, coordinator of the Expanded Immunization Program of the Box.
The syncitial virus is one of the main causes of respiratory diseases in minors. Globally, it causes about 1.4 million hospitalizations and 46,000 deaths every year.
“The syncitial virus loves rain, cold and young children,” said Delgado.
“Less hospitalizations”
With this strategy, health authorities expect a decrease in serious hospitalizations and consultations for respiratory infections in children under six months.
“This will generate that resources aimed at the attention of these children can be used in other activities,” said Arroba. The impact could begin to be noticed within 10 weeks.
The vaccine will also be available in the private sector and, in case of remaining doses, it is valued to extend its application to older adults.
Finally, the CCSS recalled that, as with any immunization, if a person presents an adverse reaction, he must immediately go to the doctor.
