RSV Immunization at Southdale Peds

RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization for children in the US. Infants less than one year of age are at highest risk for severe disease and hospitalization. There are now several ways to protect our youngest patients from complications and hospitalization due to RSV.

The new RSV immunization is NOT a vaccine; rather, it is a monoclonal antibody shot that is given to young infants prior to and during RSV season. It was recently unanimously approved by the CDC and protects children from severe RSV disease for 5 months. RSV season is typically November through March, so those infants who are less than 8 months old at the start of RSV season will be eligible to get this shot. Infants who are born during RSV season are also recommended to get this immunization. A small set of children in their second RSV season (who are 8-19 months old) will also be eligible to get this immunization if they have certain medical conditions.

This immunization is safe to be given with other childhood immunizations at well child visits. Side effects are very mild and include rash and injection site reaction (less than 1% of kids get this).

Our pediatricians recommend that all eligible infants receive Beyfortus to protect against RSV.

Click HERE to review RSV Preventative Antibody Immunization Information Statement published by the CDC.

We are also encouraging families to check with their insurance provider regarding coverage for Beyfortus.

A maternal vaccine that is given to pregnant mothers was also recently approved to protect infants from RSV. It is given to pregnant mothers during weeks 32-36, and protects infants from severe RSV disease for 3-6 months.

Babies do not need protection from the infant immunization and maternal vaccine—only one is necessary and both seem to offer similar protection from severe disease.

Please note: All of our Beyfortus doses have been assigned to our newborns and our current patients.