RSV and Infants
When should I get RSV protection for my baby?
In the fall of 2024, a new RSV prevention program started in 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.
RSV is another fall/winter respiratory illness. It is not the same as influenza or COVID-19, but is spread in similar ways through coughing, sneezing and touching contaminated surfaces.
The new RSV program provides 2 options for protecting infants
- 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 as midwives are not authorized to administer.
- 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.
RSV antibodies injection provides 6 months of protection to your baby. It should be offered for any infant when they will get the best protection during their first RSV season (November to April). Babies born after February should wait until fall to receive Beyfortus so they are protected during the peak RSV months.
Beyfortus is only given once for most babies.
Older babies who are at higher risk due to health complications may be eligible to receive Beyfortus during their second RSV season. Parents should ask their health care provider in the fall.
For babies born between March and October, please contact your health care provider to access the RSV antibodies injection in the fall.
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.