Tainan City has launched an RSV vaccine subsidy to reduce respiratory infection risks among infants, targeting low-income and lower-middle-income pregnant women. Those registered in Tainan and 28 to 36 weeks pregnant can make appointments for free vaccination at health centers in the city’s 37 districts. Eligible applicants should prepare proof of status, the maternity handbook, ID card and National Health Insurance card.

RSV hospitalization cases are mostly infants under 6 months old, accounting for about 50% to 70%, with babies under 3 months facing the highest risk. Current treatment mainly focuses on symptoms. The subsidy moves prevention earlier to pregnancy, lowering the cost barrier through public support and helping economically vulnerable families reduce medical risks before childbirth.

Doctors remind that RSV infection may cause higher risks for infants. Studies show the hospitalization and emergency visit rates for RSV patients are about 16 times those of flu patients. If pregnant women receive the vaccine at 28 to 30 weeks, the mother has more time to produce antibodies and pass them to the fetus, reducing the chance of newborn infection and severe illness.

The Tainan City Public Health Bureau said the subsidy considers the financial pressure faced by low-income and lower-middle-income pregnant women in paying for vaccination. Eligible women should prepare required documents and make appointments with the 37 district health centers. The city will prioritize high-risk and disadvantaged groups and continue promoting maternal and infant health care based on implementation results.