The bronchiolitis prevention campaign begins this year before the usual circulation period of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), to ensure optimal protection for infants before and during the epidemic. Bronchiolitis affects approximately 30% of infants in France, totaling around 480,000 cases annually.
The 2025-2026 winter season in the Paca region saw a shorter and later bronchiolitis epidemic than in previous years, ending in early January 2026. Emergency room visits and hospitalizations were the lowest since the 2016-2017 season, with the exception of spring 2021.
These encouraging results follow the deployment of preventive treatments since 2023. Two strategies are now offered: maternal vaccination to transfer protective antibodies to the baby before birth, and immunization with a monoclonal antibody for infants during their first season of exposure to the virus. These are alternative strategies, with guidance from a doctor or midwife.
Maternal vaccination, available since autumn 2024, is offered to pregnant women between the 7th and 8th month of pregnancy with the Abrysvo® vaccine. It protects the newborn from birth up to 6 months. In Paca, 40% of eligible pregnant women were vaccinated during the 2025-2026 campaign, a 14-point increase from the previous season, although regional coverage remains below the national level (54%).
Preventive treatment immunization, offered since 2023 with nirsevimab (Beyfortus®) and this year with clesrovimab (Enflonsia®), aims to protect infants from severe forms and hospitalizations. It is offered to babies born during the campaign (September 2026 - February 2027) before leaving the maternity ward, and to babies born before the campaign (February - August 2026) in the community. For premature or high-risk infants, Synagis® is administered in a hospital setting. Nirsevimab has demonstrated an effectiveness of nearly 80% reduction in the risk of severe forms requiring intensive care.
Acute bronchiolitis is a seasonal viral respiratory illness transmitted through direct contact. To prevent contamination, it is recommended to wash hands, regularly clean the baby's nose, ventilate the room, limit visits, avoid crowded public places, and wear a mask if symptoms are present in the family. It is also advised not to share unwashed baby items and to avoid smoking near children.
In 95% of cases, bronchiolitis can be managed by a general practitioner, who will advise on hygiene and dietary measures and provide guidance on monitoring for any worsening symptoms.
