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RSV season is here – Your questions answered

Newborn babies born during 2024 are now eligible to receive a special preventive antibody in hospital before they go home. This antibody can help protect your baby from serious RSV illness.

What is RSV and why should my baby receive the RSV antibody?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly among infants, young children, and older adults, affecting the lungs and airways. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis, a common chest infection that affects infants and toddlers.

An RSV infection causes mucus to buildup in the lungs. This means less oxygen can pass through the lungs, potentially decreasing the oxygen in the blood. RSV infection is the leading viral cause of infant death in Canada – almost nine times more than flu.

What is an RSV antibody?

A preventive antibody is a protein that helps the body fight harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. It’s called nirsevimab, or by its brand name Beyfortus.

How will it all work?

Before we give your newborn this medication, your newborn’s health care provider in the Birthing Unit, Newborn Maternal Unit or NICU will ask for your consent. It is given by injection into your baby's thigh before they go home after birth. RSV season is similar to the flu season, typically November to March.

Who is eligible to receive it?

If your baby was born anytime from January 1, 2024 on, they are eligible. If your baby didn’t receive the medication while in the hospital, please contact your family doctor or pediatrician.

What else should I know?

Some babies have an increased risk of serious RSV infection:

  • Babies born prematurely
  • Children less than two years old with certain lung conditions or congenital heart disease, are at increased risk of RSV bronchiolitis or pneumonia and hospitalization.
  • Babies with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, also called Chronic Lung Disease, who required breathing support (mechanical ventilation), or needed extra oxygen, are at higher risk of getting very sick.

Will my baby need more than one dose?

The RSV antibody is long-acting. Infants in their first RSV season, which lasts around six months, require only a single dose. There are special circumstances where a newborn may qualify for a follow up shot in the second year of life. Please contact your health care provider to learn whether you qualify.

For more information, and to see resources in several languages on the prevention of RSV in infants, please visit the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health.