RSV Immunization
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is the leading cause of hospitalization among U.S. infants, who may require supplemental oxygen, treatment for dehydration, or mechanical ventilation during their hospital course.
Tanque Verde Pediatrics offers the RSV preventive antibody (trade name Enflonsia, generic name Clesrovimab-cfor), a shot that prevents severe RSV disease in infants and young children. It is slightly different from a vaccine because it provides passive immunity by giving an already made antibody (whereas vaccines stimulate the immune system to create antibodies). It has an excellent safety profile and is >80% effective in preventing infection as well as hospitalization and ICU admission due to RSV (both in clinical trials and observational data from prior seasons).
Babies eligible for Enflonsia at TVP must meet the following criteria:
- Less than 8 months old during the RSV season (October 1st – March 31st)
- Did not receive prior RSV immunization (either last season or in the hospital prior to discharge)
- Mom did NOT receive the RSV vaccine while pregnant (or received it less than 2 weeks before delivery)
A different RSV called Beyfortus (generic name Nirsevimab) is also available for children 8 through 19 months who are considered high risk:
- Children with chronic lung disease of prematurity who require medical support during the six months before the start of their second RSV season
- Children who are severely immunocompromised
- Children with evidence of severe cystic fibrosis (previous hospitalization for pulmonary exacerbation in the first year of life or abnormalities on chest imaging that persist when stable) or that have weight-for-length that is less than the 10th percentile
- American Indian or Alaska Native children entering their second RSV season
If your baby is eligible, they can receive an RSV Immunization during their regularly scheduled well visit or at a separate nurse visit during the RSV season. The cost of RSV Immunizations is covered by almost all insurances. We encourage families to discuss RSV protection with their pediatrician during their scheduled visits.