HSE Rolls Out Spring COVID Vaccination Programme for Children Aged Six Months to Four Years
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has launched its 2026 Spring COVID-19 Vaccination Programme for young children, issuing updated protocols for the administration of the Comirnaty mRNA vaccine to children aged six months to four years — with a particular focus on those with underlying health conditions or immunocompromise.
Background
The HSE National Immunisation Office (NIO) has issued version 4 of its master medicine protocol for the administration of the Comirnaty LP.8.1 COVID-19 mRNA vaccine to children in the youngest age group. The protocol provides written instructions for registered healthcare professionals to administer the vaccine without an individual prescription, in line with recommendations from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC).
Key Developments
Under the updated protocol, the vaccine is recommended twice a year for children aged six months to four years who have immunocompromise, and once a year for those with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of severe COVID-19. The dose is 0.3 ml, delivered via intramuscular injection — into the vastus lateralis muscle of the thigh for children under 12 months, or the deltoid muscle for older children.
The protocol provides detailed schedules for children who have never been vaccinated, distinguishing between those with and without a prior history of SARS-CoV-2 infection. It also includes specific guidance for children with immunocompromise, including considerations for a potential third dose and timing relative to immunosuppressing therapy.
Healthcare professionals are advised to defer vaccination during acute severe illness and to be aware of contraindications, including a history of anaphylaxis to a previous mRNA vaccine or its components such as polyethylene glycol (PEG).
Why It Matters
The spring vaccination programme reflects the HSE's ongoing commitment to protecting the most vulnerable young children from severe COVID-19. While the virus no longer dominates public health discourse as it did during the pandemic years, children with underlying health conditions remain at elevated risk of serious illness, and the twice-yearly vaccination schedule for immunocompromised children reflects the continued importance of targeted protection.
Parents of eligible children are encouraged to contact their GP or public health nurse to arrange vaccination. The programme is part of Ireland's broader seasonal vaccination strategy, which also includes influenza vaccination in the autumn.
What's Next
The HSE will continue to monitor COVID-19 trends and update vaccination recommendations as needed. Parents with questions about their child's eligibility or the vaccination schedule are advised to consult their GP or visit the HSE website for the latest guidance.
Read the full HSE vaccination protocol for children aged 6 months to 4 years.
