Bill 3209/26 creates the National Policy for Prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection and requires the Unified Health System (SUS) to offer the RSV vaccine to children in their first year of life. According to the proposal, the vaccine should be reinforced in the second year of life when the child is part of high-risk groups.
The measure aims to combat bronchiolitis and infant pneumonia, the main complications caused by the virus.
Since February 2026, SUS has already offered the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab free of charge against the virus, following clinical protocol and guidelines of the National Commission for the Incorporation of Technologies in the Unified Health System (Conitec).
What the project does, by including this provision in federal law, is to transform vaccination against VSR into a permanent public policy.
Children at higher risk
Among the conditions that increase the risk of complications in children and authorize vaccination in the second year of life are:
- chronic lung disease resulting from prematurity;
- congenital heart disease;
- immunodeficiencies;
- Down syndrome; and
- other clinical conditions at higher risk.
The project also provides for epidemiological surveillance activities and awareness campaigns for healthcare professionals and families.
The author of the project, Deputy Fernanda Pessoa (PSD-CE), argues that the cost of preventive treatment can be offset by a reduction in hospitalizations and long-term respiratory problems.
Next steps
The proposal will be analyzed, ina conclusive mannerby the commissions of Social Security, Social Assistance, Childhood, Adolescence and Family; Health; Finance and Taxation; and Constitution and Justice and Citizenship.
To become law, the text must be approved by the Chamber and the Senate.