Ecuador Adds New Vaccine for Pregnant Women

Ecuador has officially incorporated a new vaccine into its National Immunization Schedule, specifically targeting pregnant women to safeguard neonatal health. The Ministry of Public Health announced on Monday, July 27, 2026, the inclusion of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine. The launch event took place in Galápagos, with simultaneous activities in 24 other locations across the country.

The new immunization is recommended for pregnant women between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation. Its primary goal is to prevent severe pneumonia and bronchiolitis in newborns during their initial six months of life. The Ministry of Public Health explained that vaccinating pregnant individuals allows for the transfer of antibodies to the baby before birth, acting as a crucial preventive measure against respiratory infections.

The main launch event was held on San Cristóbal Island in Galápagos, attended by approximately 200 people. The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that Ecuador is adopting the bivalent recombinant Abrysvo vaccine, administered in a single dose of 0.5 milliliters. According to official figures, over 62,000 cases of pneumonia have been recorded in Ecuador so far in 2026, with infants under six months being among the most vulnerable groups. Pichincha province accounts for 34.6% of these cases, followed by Guayas with 12.4%.

Health Minister Juan Carlos Aveiga reported that the state has acquired 125,200 doses, representing a total investment of USD 4.4 million. He also highlighted that the strategy involves reinforcing the cold chain to ensure proper vaccine conservation and distribution. As part of the official ceremony, a refrigerated all-terrain vehicle was symbolically delivered to the San Cristóbal Health Center. The Ministry stated that two such units were assigned to Galápagos, and a total of 40 vehicles were distributed nationwide. Additionally, the Oskar Jandl Hospital will be strengthened with the addition of five specialist doctors, two radiant warmers for newborns, and essential medications.

“

Knowing that my baby and my neighbors' babies will be protected from the womb fills us with tranquility. The shield starts with us.