More than 31,000 children in mainland Portugal received immunisations against Respiratory Syncytial Virus during the first month of the seasonal campaign, according to the Directorate-General of Health (Direção-Geral da Saúde or DGS). The campaign runs through 31 March and targets around 84,000 eligible infants, including premature babies and children at high clinical risk. Health officials reported strong early uptake, aiming to prevent severe pediatric respiratory infections and ease seasonal pressure on hospitals.
Health Directorate Vaccinates 31,000 Children Against RSV in Month
Monday, 19 October 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
The DGS (Direção-Geral da Saúde) is Portugal's central public health authority, responsible for setting health policy guidelines, managing vaccination programs, disease surveillance, and public health campaigns. It operates under the Ministry of Health.
The DGS issues clinical guidelines (normas) that health professionals across Portugal follow, manages the national vaccination schedule, coordinates responses to disease outbreaks, and publishes health statistics. It became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic as the lead agency for public health guidance.
For residents, the DGS is the authoritative source for vaccination schedules, health alerts, and clinical guidance. Its recommendations shape how hospitals and health centers deliver care across the country.