As the cooler days roll in, so does RSV season. RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a respiratory virus that can put babies at serious risk, often leading to hospitalizations and even intensive care. But there’s good news on the horizon for parents and caregivers!

Introducing Nirsevimab: A Game-Changer for RSV Prevention

Starting this fall, a new preventive medicine called Nirsevimab will be available to protect babies and at-risk toddlers from RSV. This monoclonal antibody is FDA-approved and recommended by both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

“This preventive medicine is a game-changer,” says Dr. Neal Davis, medical director of Intermountain Children’s Health. “Even with last year’s limited supplies of Nirsevimab, we saw fewer children with RSV and fewer hospitalizations. With a more robust supply this year, we are hoping more children can get it to significantly reduce their chances of severe RSV, which fills up Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospital each year with very sick children.”

Who Should Get the RSV Shot?

All children under 8 months old during their first RSV season.

Children 8-19 months (about 1 and a half years) old who are at extreme risk for severe disease as they enter their second RSV season. Check with your pediatrician if your 8-19 month old is at high risk.

Some babies may have protection from their mother if they receive an RSV immunization during pregnancy.

What is RSV?

RSV is a highly contagious, common respiratory virus that spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and direct contact with infected surfaces. It is the leading cause of bronchiolitis, a lung infection that can result in severe illness, especially in infants.

RSV season typically begins in the fall and continues through early spring. Every year in the U.S., RSV is linked to thousands of hospitalizations, hundreds of deaths, and millions of clinic visits in children under the age of 5.

Protect Your Baby During Respiratory Season

Here are some tips to keep your little one safe:

• Get the Nirsevimab shot, which is covered by Medicaid, CHIP, and most private insurance plans including Select Health
• Wash your hands frequently
• Cover your sneezes and coughs
• Stay home when you are sick
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible

By taking these steps, you can help protect your baby from RSV and ensure they stay healthy throughout the respiratory season. Stay safe and healthy!

For more information, ask your pediatrician or health care provider, or find a location at intermountainhealth.org.