The RSV injection for the baby contains antibodies and is not a vaccination. The national programme determines availability and timing.
The 22-week vaccination against whooping cough
The whooping cough vaccination is offered to pregnant people from the 22nd week through the Dutch youth healthcare service. After vaccination, your body produces antibodies. These pass through the placenta to the baby and provide protection during the first months after birth.
Your baby’s vaccination schedule may depend on whether you received this vaccination during pregnancy and on other medical circumstances. Keep the record and discuss it with the consultatiebureau after the birth. Participation remains your choice.
The seasonal flu vaccination
The flu vaccination for pregnant people is offered only during part of the year, with conditions relating to the stage of pregnancy. RIVM publishes the current period each season. The vaccination is intended to reduce the risk of flu and serious consequences for the pregnant person and baby.
Ask the Dutch youth healthcare service or your midwife whether you are eligible for the offer. If a medical condition means that your GP already sends you an invitation, mention this so it is clear which route you will use to receive the vaccination.
RSV: vaccine for the pregnant person or antibodies for the baby
An RSV vaccination during pregnancy prompts the pregnant person’s own body to produce antibodies. This vaccination is not part of the same free offer as the injection for the baby and may be at your own expense. Discuss timing and suitability with a healthcare professional.
The RSV injection that babies receive through the Rijksvaccinatieprogramma contains nirsevimab, a ready-made monoclonal antibody. The baby therefore does not develop a vaccine response. The timing of the offer is linked to the date of birth and the RSV season. The Dutch youth healthcare service also assesses exceptions.
Record your choices and injections
Note which injection you received, the date and the organisation that provided it. Take this information to your first appointments with the Dutch youth healthcare service. Questions about combinations, earlier vaccination, allergies or special circumstances in pregnancy require a personal assessment by the healthcare professional involved.
Programmes and seasonal dates can change. Always check the current offer on RIVM and Rijksvaccinatieprogramma.nl shortly before an appointment. An online guide cannot replace an individual invitation and medical assessment.
Sources for this guide
This guide provides general information. Your healthcare professional or the competent authority can explain what applies in your situation.
- RIVM: vaccinations during pregnancyAccessed on 2026-09-07
- Rijksvaccinatieprogramma: RSV immunisation for babiesAccessed on 2026-09-07
- Rijksvaccinatieprogramma: leaflet on the RSV injection for babiesAccessed on 2026-09-07