Importance of RSV immunization for newborns, high-risk infants

Did you know that two out of three babies will get respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) by their first birthday?

RSV is a major cause of respiratory illness and hospitalization in young children, especially during RSV season — which typically occurs from late fall to early spring. Babies younger than one year old are 16 times more likely to be hospitalized with serious RSV than with the common flu.

Those at highest risk include:

• Newborns and babies under one year of age entering their first RSV season
• Children up to 24 months with underlying health conditions that increase their risk of severe RSV through their second RSV season

A Canadian study published in JAMA Network Open found that between 2017 and 2022 almost half of the 11,014 RSV-related hospitalizations at 13 major children’s hospitals were in infants under six months. About a quarter of all hospitalized babies required intensive care and most of these were also under six months. This highlights the importance of protecting young infants from RSV to help reduce hospitalizations.

Tips for parents during RSV season

Neonatologist Dr. Navneet Sharma shares these practical steps for parents to protect infants from RSV and other respiratory illnesses during RSV season:

• Avoid crowded places: During the first three months, avoid crowds to reduce exposure to viruses
• Practise good hand hygiene: Regular handwashing for anyone interacting with the baby is essential
• Limit contact with sick individuals: Avoid having people with cold or flu symptoms visit or hold the baby
• Consider wearing masks if you’re unwell: Wearing masks around the baby can help reduce exposure
• Sanitize common surfaces: Regularly clean surfaces that the baby may touch, as RSV can survive on surfaces for several hours

“RSV infections can cause serious complications in infants with low immunity,” says Dr. Sharma. “Prevention is key, particularly in those early months.”

Why RSV immunization matters

Beyfortus, a monoclonal antibody given as a single injection, now offers critical protection for infants, helping to reduce RSV-related hospital admissions.

“Data from Europe and the U.S. for the 2023 RSV season shows that Beyfortus was 80 to 90 per cent effective in preventing RSV hospitalizations,” says Dr. Sharma.

Beyfortus is FDA-approved and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Beyfortus vs. traditional RSV immunization

Compared to Synagis, which required monthly injections for high-risk children, Beyfortus is available for all infants and requires only a single dose.

“At Oak Valley Health, Beyfortus is part of routine newborn care before discharge,” says Dr. Sharma. “It provides quick immunity during RSV season without directly stimulating the baby’s immune system.”

Common side effects are mild, like redness or swelling around the injection site.

Our approach to RSV prevention

We are dedicated to providing access to Beyfortus and educating parents on RSV prevention.

“Our staff is trained to administer Beyfortus efficiently and educate parents about RSV prevention strategies,” says Dr. Sharma. “We want every parent to leave our facility equipped to protect their infant.”

Beyfortus is also available for high-risk infants in the community. Visit our Community Health Clinics page for more information on eligibility and how you can book an appointment.