Beyfortus: The RSV Antibody Treatment Every Infant Should Receive

RSV season is upon us, and although many new parents may not be familiar with it, chances are their child has experienced it. Statistics show that 2 out of 3 infants will contract RSV by their first birthday. To most people, RSV looks like the common cold. However, in very young babies and young children with certain health conditions, RSV can lead to serious respiratory infections, often requiring hospitalization. Thankfully, an RSV antibody treatment called Beyfortus or nirsevimab is now available for all babies under eight months of age. 

What is RSV?

RSV, which stands for respiratory syncytial virus, is a common and highly contagious virus that can affect people of all ages. However, it can be particularly severe in infants and young children. RSV can lead to serious respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

The Importance of the RSV Antibody Treatment

Beyfortus is not a vaccine. It is an antibody treatment that helps the body fight off RSV by providing an extra layer of protection for newborns and young babies. One treatment can last five months, so when administered at the beginning of the RSV season, it protects for the entire season.

Who Can Receive the RSV Antibody Treatment?

Newborns receive RSV treatment at the hospital shortly after birth, at the same time as the Hepatitis B vaccine. This early administration is crucial in providing infants with early protection against RSV, especially during the vulnerable first few months of life. By ensuring that newborns receive the vaccine as soon as possible, we can help reduce their risk of RSV-related illness and its potential consequences.

In addition to babies under eight months of age, Beyfortus is also available for young children up to 19 months of age who are at an elevated risk for developing severe complications from RSV. This includes prematurity, chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, weakened immune system, cystic fibrosis, and neuromuscular disorders that make it difficult to clear mucus. 

The new RSV treatment, Beyfortus, represents a significant step forward in protecting the health and well-being of babies and young children. At Rainbow Pediatrics, we encourage parents to speak with their healthcare providers about the importance of the RSV vaccine and to ensure that their baby receives it. Your child’s pediatric provider can also advise if your young child should receive it. By working together, we can help keep our little ones safe from RSV and its potential complications.