We are delighted to share some hugely positive news for the Irish primary immunodeficiency community.
The HSE has confirmed that newborn screening for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) will commence on all bloodspot samples received at the National Newborn Bloodspot Screening Laboratory, CHI Temple Street, from Monday, 13th April 2026. Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) will also be added to the programme at the same time.
SCID screening will be carried out using TREC-based screening, which can detect all types of SCID. Ireland has screened for ADA-SCID since 2022, and this expansion builds on that foundation, bringing our national programme in line with best practice across Europe and beyond.
This milestone is the result of significant work by the HSE National Healthy Childhood Programme, the National Newborn Bloodspot Screening Laboratory team, and the many advocates — including families, clinicians, and patient organisations — who have campaigned tirelessly for this change.
Early detection of SCID through newborn screening is life-saving. It means affected babies can be identified and treated before serious, life-threatening infections take hold. For families who have experienced a late or missed diagnosis, this news will be especially meaningful.
IPIA warmly welcomes this announcement and thanks the HSE teams involved for their dedication in bringing this programme expansion to fruition.
