Brussels University Hospitals Launch Campaign to Protect Infants from Bronchiolitis

Brussels, The Gulf Observer: The Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF) and Hôpital Erasme, both part of the Brussels University Hospital (H.U.B), have announced a new campaign aimed at protecting babies from bronchiolitis.

Scheduled from 1 September to 31 October 2025, the initiative targets children born between 19 February and 30 September 2025. Instead of traditional vaccines, the program uses monoclonal antibodies, which provide direct protection against the disease rather than stimulating an immune response. According to a study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health in May, this approach reduces the risk of hospitalization by 83% for infants under one year old.

The immunization is delivered through a single intramuscular injection. Babies born before the start of the epidemic season will receive the injection in September or October, while newborns during the winter season will be vaccinated at birth.

For infants due between 1 September 2025 and 31 January 2026, two preventive options are available: either the newborn receives monoclonal antibodies after birth, or expectant mothers are vaccinated during pregnancy between the 28th and 36th week, as recommended by the Superior Health Council.

Parents can now schedule appointments through special paediatric consultations established at both hospitals.