RSV and Infants
When should I get RSV protection for my baby?
The Infant RSV program starts on October 1, 2025 across Ontario.
RSV is one of the most common respiratory viruses in infants and young children, infecting almost all children by the age of 2 years old. RSV can cause serious respiratory disease in infants, young children and older adults.
The Infant RSV program provides 2 options for protecting infants. Only one option may be chosen for RSV protection in most instances.
- Beyfortus – this is not a vaccine, it is an injection of antibodies that is given to the baby preferably shortly after birth while still in hospital. This injection provides immediate protection from RSV. Those who deliver at home will need to see their health care provider to get Beyfortus.
- Abrysvo – a vaccine that can be given during pregnancy, at least 4 weeks prior to delivery to allow antibodies to develop and be transferred to the baby in utero. This is not as effective as the antibodies given directly to the baby. This is a ‘back up plan’ in case baby is not able to receive the Beyfortus. Only in high risk situations would both the mom receive RSV vaccine and antibodies be given to the baby.
Who can receive Beyfortus antibodies?
- Babies born between October 1, 2025 and spring 2026 may receive these antibodies prior to hospital discharge
- Infants born on or after April 1, 2025 and aged less than 8 months may receive these antibodies at their regular health care provider visit after October 1, 2025, including babies who did not receive at birth i.e. home birth
- Children up to 24 months of age who meet the high-risk criteria for severe RSV disease may get a second dose to take them through their second RSV season.
- If you do not have a health care provider, CHEO has a clinic that you may access.
Who can receive Abrysvo vaccine?
- Pregnant persons who are 32 to 36 weeks pregnant and who will deliver near the start of, or during, the RSV season. The vaccine becomes available in late September to health care providers.
- If they deliver less than 4 weeks after receiving the vaccine, they may not have had time to produce sufficient antibodies to pass to their baby
If you are pregnant and due during the fall/winter months, check with your delivering hospital about how to access Beyfortus for your baby at time of birth.