Protecting Mothers and Newborns Against RSV
During the colder fall and winter months, respiratory illnesses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) can pose a significant risk to young children, especially newborns and infants. RSV is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe respiratory illness in infants, leading to hospitalization or, in extreme cases, life-threatening complications. Thankfully, there is a way to protect our youngest patients through RSV vaccination, designed specifically for pregnant individuals and newborns.
“RSV infection is the leading cause for hospitalization for infants in the US,” said Dr. Gregory Tiongson, medical director at Bronson Children’s Hospital. “Finally, we have safe and effective ways to prevent serious RSV infections in our most susceptible patients. This is incredibly exciting and will be a real game-changer in our efforts to keep kids safe and healthy.”
Understanding RSV: Signs and Symptoms
RSV is one of the most common causes of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one year of age. The virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and can survive on surfaces for several hours. While RSV often presents as a cold in adults and older children, it can be far more serious for infants. Recognizing the symptoms early can be crucial in getting the right treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of RSV in Infants:
- Coughing and wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or fast, shallow breaths
- Bluish tint around the lips and fingertips (cyanosis)
- Poor feeding or difficulty swallowing
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Fever (although not always present)
If any of these symptoms appear in a newborn or young infant, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. RSV infections can escalate quickly, particularly in babies with underlying health issues or premature birth histories.
The Role of Vaccination: Protecting Both Parents and Infants
The FDA recently approved new options for RSV vaccination and preventative treatment that offer much-needed protection.
ABRYSVO™ for Pregnant Individuals between 32-36 Weeks of Pregnancy: A new maternal RSV vaccine, ABRYSVO™, can be given during the later stages of pregnancy. By receiving this vaccine, the mother’s body produces antibodies against RSV, which are then passed on to the baby before birth. This passive immunity helps protect the newborn for the first six months of life, a period during which they are most vulnerable to severe RSV illness.
Beyfortus® for Newborns and Infants up to 8 Months of Age: Beyfortus®, a newly approved monoclonal antibody treatment can be administered directly to newborns and infants. This treatment provides an added layer of protection for babies who might be at higher risk of RSV, such as those born prematurely or with certain heart or lung conditions. Infants between 8-19 months with certain risk factors may also be eligible for Beyfortus®.
Why Vaccination and Prevention are Important
Each year, RSV is responsible for over 2 million doctor visits and 57,000 hospitalizations in children under five in the United States alone. The impact on families is immense, with many parents unable to work due to hospital stays and the need for close monitoring of their sick children. For those who develop severe RSV disease, the recovery process can be lengthy, and long-term respiratory complications are a risk. Vaccination and preventative treatments offer a way to change this narrative by reducing the incidence of severe disease in babies. It also helps ease the burden on healthcare systems during peak seasons when RSV, flu, and other respiratory viruses circulate together.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you are pregnant or have a young baby, now is the time to speak with your healthcare provider about RSV vaccination and preventative treatment. Pregnant individuals should discuss receiving the RSV vaccine, ABRYSVO™, between 32-36 weeks of gestation, and parents of infants should ask about their child’s options for added protection, including Beyfortus®. By taking proactive steps to safeguard against RSV, we can help keep our littlest ones safe and ensure a healthier start to life. Stay informed, talk to your healthcare provider and take steps to protect yourself and your baby this RSV season.
Resources
Maternal RSV Vaccination
RSV in Infants and Young Children
