Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that most children encounter by their second birthday. While it often causes mild symptoms, RSV can lead to severe respiratory issues like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in some children. Fortunately, new vaccines and antibody options are now available to help reduce the risk of serious RSV complications.
For an overview of RSV – including what it is, typical symptoms, how it spreads, and what to monitor – check out this PedsDocTalk YouTube video. It covers essential details like recognizing signs of difficulty breathing and understanding RSV season.
Preventative tools like vaccines and antibody options can make a significant difference in reducing the risks associated with RSV. Knowing how these options work and who they’re recommended for can help you feel confident in making the best choice for your family.
What is RSV and why is it a concern?
RSV is a virus that most children encounter early in life, often causing symptoms similar to a common cold. However, in some cases – particularly for infants under two years old – it can lead to more serious respiratory illnesses like bronchiolitis or pneumonia. These complications sometimes require hospitalization, especially for high-risk groups such as premature infants or those with underlying health conditions.
With RSV being one of the leading causes of respiratory hospitalizations in young children, prevention is key. While most children recover from RSV without complications, having tools to reduce severe outcomes offers parents more peace of mind during RSV season.
The new preventative options: Vaccines and antibodies
For years, there were limited options to protect children from RSV. Until recently, preventative measures were primarily reserved for high-risk infants through the use of Synagis (palivizumab), a monthly antibody injection. However, recent advancements in medical science have introduced vaccines and antibody treatments available to a broader population, offering much-needed relief for parents and caregivers.
The two most widely available options now are:
Abrysvo: A vaccine for pregnant individuals that passes protective antibodies to the baby through the placenta.
Beyfortus: A monoclonal antibody injection given directly to infants to provide immediate protection during their first RSV season.
These new options are designed to prevent severe RSV complications, reduce hospitalizations, and protect vulnerable infants during a critical period of their development. Please note this information is purely educational and is not sponsored by any pharmaceutical companies.
Abrysvo: The RSV vaccine for pregnant individuals
Abrysvo is a groundbreaking vaccine designed for pregnant individuals to help protect their babies from RSV-related complications. By passing antibodies to the baby through the placenta, this vaccine offers early protection during the first critical months of life.
Who is it for?
Abrysvo is recommended for pregnant individuals between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy. Vaccination during this time ensures enough antibodies are transferred to the baby before birth. For those beyond 36 weeks and 6 days, the vaccine is not recommended, as there may not be enough time for the antibodies to develop and cross the placenta effectively.
In most of the continental United States, the ideal vaccination period is between September and January, just before RSV season peaks. However, these recommendations may vary depending on the region. For example, in southern Florida, RSV season begins earlier, so vaccination is advised earlier as well. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best timing for your area.
Why is it important?
Babies, particularly those born prematurely or with underlying health conditions, are at greater risk for severe RSV. Abrysvo helps reduce hospitalizations, healthcare visits, and severe outcomes, offering parents peace of mind during a critical period for their baby’s health.
How effective is it?
Clinical trials have shown that Abrysvo significantly reduces RSV-related complications in newborns. The vaccine lowered the risk of hospitalization for RSV by 68% within the first 3 months of life. By six months, the reduction remained substantial at 57%. Additionally, healthcare visits related to RSV dropped by 57% within three months and 51% within six months. For severe cases requiring interventions like ICU care or mechanical ventilation, the vaccine reduced risks by an impressive 82% within three months and 69% within six months of birth. These findings highlight the vaccine’s potential to provide meaningful protection during a baby’s most vulnerable months.
To explore more of the available data about Abrysvo, check out this PedsDocTalk YouTube video.
What about safety?
Studies involving thousands of participants have demonstrated that Abrysvo is generally safe. Common side effects include mild injection site pain, headache, muscle aches, and nausea. Rare risks, such as pre-eclampsia or preterm birth, have been observed but are not definitively linked to the vaccine. Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and potential risks.
Abrysvo offers an important opportunity to protect infants before they’re even born, especially during RSV season. For many parents, it’s a proactive step toward safeguarding their baby’s health.
Beyfortus: The RSV antibody for infants
Beyfortus, also known as nirsevimab, is a monoclonal antibody designed to protect infants from severe RSV-related complications during their first RSV season. Unlike a vaccine, which trains the immune system to produce its own antibodies over time, Beyfortus provides immediate protection by delivering ready-made antibodies that neutralize the virus.
Who is it for?
Beyfortus is recommended for all infants under eight months of age entering their first RSV season. It’s particularly important for those who are born during RSV season or who missed maternal vaccination with Abrysvo. Additionally, some children aged eight to 19 months who are at higher risk of severe RSV complications may also qualify for Beyfortus. This includes premature infants born before 35 weeks, children with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease, and those with severe immunocompromise or cystic fibrosis.
The timing of administration is crucial, as it’s typically given just before RSV season begins, which is generally in the fall and winter months. However, in some regions with differing RSV patterns, your pediatrician can guide you on the best schedule to ensure timely protection.
Why is it important?
Beyfortus offers critical protection for infants too young to receive other forms of RSV prevention at higher risk of severe outcomes. By providing immediate immunity, it helps reduce the burden of RSV infections during the most vulnerable months of a child’s life.
How effective is it?
Extensive clinical trials and real-world data have demonstrated the effectiveness of Beyfortus. In studies, Beyfortus reduced the risk for RSV-related lower respiratory tract infections by 74.5% and hospitalizations by 62.1% during the first RSV season. A real-world analysis conducted by the CDC in 2024 showed it to be 90% effective in preventing RSV-related hospitalizations among infants under eight months. These results make it a powerful tool for reducing severe RSV complications and hospital visits.
What about safety?
Clinical trials involving thousands of infants found Beyfortus to be safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects include mild reactions at the injection site, such as swelling or redness and occasional irritability or low-grade fever. Rarely allergic reactions have been reported.
While anti-vaccine narratives have circulated concerns about the safety of Beyfortus, it’s essential to note that deaths observed during studies were not directly related to the antibody. These cases were associated with other medical conditions or unrelated deaths, such as accidents.
How to decide: Abrysvo or Beyfortus?
When deciding between Abrysvo during pregnancy or Beyfortus for your infant, several factors come into play. Both options are highly effective in preventing severe RSV-related complications, but the best choice often depends on your specific circumstances, timing, and medical history.
If you’re looking for more guidance on when Abrysvo or Beyfortus might be the better choice, check out this PedsDocTalk YouTube video for scenarios and recommendations.
The best way to determine the right option for your baby is to consult your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your pregnancy timeline, baby’s risk factors, and local RSV season timing to guide you toward the most effective preventative measure. With strong support from the CDC and major medical organizations, both options are safe and effective, giving parents added confidence in protecting their children.
Final thoughts: Empowered decision-making
RSV is unpredictable. While most cases are mild, severe complications can and do occur. As a pediatrician, I’ve seen the impact of RSV firsthand, and these preventative measures are truly game-changers in protecting our youngest and most vulnerable. The introduction of Abrysvo and Beyfortus provides parents with tools to reduce the risk of severe RSV complications, giving infants a stronger start during their most vulnerable months.
Whether you’re considering the vaccine during pregnancy or the antibody for your infant, the key is making an informed choice that aligns with your family’s needs. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best option based on your timeline, location, and baby’s risk factors. With strong support from the CDC and major medical organizations, both Abrysvo and Beyfortus offer safe and effective protection, bringing peace of mind to parents everywhere.
Watch the PedsDocTalk YouTube Video HERE!
