Pediatric Conditions and Treatment The New RSV Shot: 6 Must-Knows for Parents

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By John R. Schreiber, MD, MPH, Medical Director of Infection Control, Connecticut Children's

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has long been a worry for parents, especially during every cold and flu season. As healthcare experts say, RSV is a common virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages, and one of the major causes of respiratory illnesses in young kids. In some cases, it can become life-threating.

For the first time, there is a widely available RSV monoclonal antibody called nirsevimab (brand name Beyfortus) on the market. We'll use the term "vaccine" or "shot" for simplicity.

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John R. Schreiber,

1. How does the monoclonal antibody RSV vaccine work?

Unlike vaccines you may be used to, such as those for measles or the flu, the RSV vaccine for infants works a bit differently. The FDA has approved a monoclonal antibody injection called nirsevimab (Beyfortus) for babies and infants.

Monoclonal antibodies aren't vaccines in the traditional sense; they don't teach the body to make its own antibodies. Instead, they provide pre-made antibodies that offer immediate protection against the virus. This can be especially useful for babies who need immunity quickly, as their immune systems have only just started to develop.

Let's dive into who is eligible and what parents need to know to make the best choice.

2. Is the new RSV monoclonal antibody available to the public?

Yes. Healthcare professionals are thrilled that this RSV vaccine, recently approved by the FDA, can prevent serious complications from the virus.

3. Who can get the nirsevimab RSV shot?

The CDC recommends that infants under eight months old receive this shot during the respiratory virus season in the fall and winter. This is the most at-risk age group when it comes to RSV infection. Many of us know someone whose baby was hospitalized for RSV in recent years. Fortunately, the shot starts working right away and will protect them through the winter months. Babies from 8-19 months of age with special risk factors such as congenital heart disease can also receive the nirsevimab shot.

4. Can moms protect their babies from RSV so they don't have to get this new monoclonal vaccine?

Yes. There is a different vaccine recommended for pregnant women from 32-36 weeks' gestation. This is a traditional vaccine (AMBBRYSVO) that induces protective antibodies against RSV in the mother, that are transferred through the placenta to the developing baby. These babies are born immune to RSV and usually do not need the monoclonal antibody vaccine.

5. How can we protect the most vulnerable against RSV?

There are several ways:

• Be mindful of family gatherings that involve newborns or young infants. Resist the urge to kiss and cuddle a newborn baby. A kiss on the top of the head, or a pat on the bottom of the feet are fine.
• Teach your school-aged child the same etiquette. School-aged children can be a germ-carrying culprit here
• If you have a newborn, consider "baby wearing" them in a wrap or carrier at a large family gathering. That way, everyone can admire the new baby, but no one coughs on them or gets in their face.
• Sick? Stay home. Getting over an illness? Mask up and keep your distance. Think back to your COVID-19 toolbox.

6. In many cases, children will fight RSV like any other respiratory illness. But please keep in mind:

• It's important to know the signs of a breathing emergency.
• There are times when it's an emergency and times when it may not be. Know where to go.