Protect Infants -Children | RSV Infection

August 21, 2024

Protect Infants and Children from RSV Infection – Nirsevimab (Commercially Available as BEYFORTUS)

What is RSV Bronchiolitis?

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory infections across all age groups. It is the most common cause of lower respiratory infections in infants and children, often resulting in hospitalizations, including ICU admissions, particularly in the US during the fall to spring seasons each year.

Implications of RSV Bronchiolitis:

RSV infection is responsible for 1 in 13 Primary Care visits for children under 5 in the US. Additionally, it accounts for approximately 1 in 38 ER visits for this age group. In 2019, RSV was estimated to cause 58,000 to 80,000 hospitalizations among children under 5, with some cases leading to fatalities. Beyond the health impacts, RSV infection also has significant social and economic consequences, including missed work, lost income, and disruptions to family routines.

How to Prevent It?

On July 21, 2023, the FDA approved nirsevimab (available as Beyfortus), a long-acting monoclonal antibody designed to protect children during the RSV season (October 1st to March 31st). This treatment is recommended for children 8 months or younger, and for high-risk children up to 19 months of age.

Who Should Get Nirsevimab?

All children 8 months or younger during RSV season.
Children aged between 8 to 19 months who meet the following criteria:
- Children with immunocompromising conditions.
- Children living with HIV infection.
- Children who have undergone cardiopulmonary bypass or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
- Those with hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease or intensive care admission requiring oxygen at hospital discharge.
- Children with chronic lung disease requiring medical support (such as chronic corticosteroid therapy, diuretic therapy, or supplemental oxygen) during the 6 months before the start of the second RSV season.
- Children with cystic fibrosis who show manifestations of severe lung disease or have a weight-for-length less than the 10th percentile.
- American Indian and Alaska Native children.

Who Should Not Get Nirsevimab?

Children who do not meet the above parameters.
Infants born to mothers who received RSV vaccination within 14 days of delivery.

How Well Does Nirsevimab Work?

Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) provides protection for about 5 months, reducing the risk of RSV disease by 80%. Recent data suggests that Nirsevimab prevents 77% of RSV-related ED encounters and is 98% effective at preventing RSV-associated hospitalizations.

Side Effects:

As with any medication, there is a very remote chance that RSV immunization could cause a severe allergic reaction, other serious injury, or even death.

Cost of the Medicine:

Most insurance carriers cover the cost of the medication if it is given for the recommended indications in children. Children who are not covered by their insurance or do not have insurance can receive the vaccination through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program at no cost.

Conclusion:

Getting your child immunized with Nirsevimab this RSV season can significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization and severe complications. Ensure your child is protected.