As parents, it’s natural to worry about your child’s health. The new RSV medication offers peace of mind, knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to safeguard your child against a potentially serious illness.
What is RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, is a common virus that can cause severe respiratory infections for some infants and young children. It is a highly contagious virus that affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and young children.
RSV is spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth and nose. Symptoms of RSV can range from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. In some cases, RSV infections can become life-threatening, especially for premature infants and babies with weakened immune systems.
The New RSV Shot
A new, single-injection shot aimed at protecting babies from RSV was recently approved by the FDA. Both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics advise that all babies under 8 months and high-risk children under 19 months receive the new approved medication called nirsevimab, and marketed as Beyfortus, before or during their first RSV season (November through March).
Benefits of the New RSV Medication
- Preventing Severe Illness: The primary benefit of the new RSV shot is its potential to prevent severe respiratory infections caused by the virus. By providing this medication to your child, you’re reducing the risk of them experiencing the most serious symptoms of RSV, which can lead to hospitalization.
- Protection for High-Risk Infants: Premature infants, babies with congenital heart disease, and those with chronic lung conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe RSV infections. The medication offers crucial protection for these vulnerable infants, helping to shield them from potential complications of RSV illness.
When will Beyfortus be Available for my Infant?
Currently, our practice does not have the RSV shot available at our offices. We are working to get doses for your infant as soon as they are made available. We will provide additional communication when we have doses of the medication.
Have questions? We are here for you!
It’s natural for parents to have questions and concerns about any new medication.
Before making the decision to protect your child against RSV, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician or our care team. They can provide you with accurate, up-to-date information, address any concerns you may have, and help you make an informed decision about your child’s healthcare.