There is no RSV vaccine for children, but there are two kinds of antibody injections that can be given to high-risk babies to help prevent serious illness.
One of them, palivizumab, has often been given to babies who were born prematurely – but it needs to be injected about once a month during RSV season to stay effective.Sign up for the CHEK Now daily email newsletter to get breaking news and the day's top stories sent to your email.A new antibody drug – nirsevimab, also known by the brand name Beyfortus – was approved by Health Canada in April. Nirsevimab only requires one injection to protect babies during the RSV season.
On Thursday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the U.S. recommended that babies born just before or during the RSV season, as well as babies who are less than eight months old before the season starts, should get the nirsevimab shot. The CDC also recommended that the shot should be given to some eight to 19-month-old babies who are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from the virus.This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 4, 2023.
Canadian Press health coverage receives support through a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely responsible for this content.
Health Health Latest News, Health Health Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Source: CTVNews - 🏆 1. / 99 Read more »
Source: globeandmail - 🏆 5. / 92 Read more »
Source: TorontoStar - 🏆 60. / 55 Read more »
Source: TheHillTimes - 🏆 11. / 79 Read more »
Source: ottawasuncom - 🏆 4. / 92 Read more »