Can a child be vaccinated against RSV?

A child (but not a preschool child, but a newborn) is given monoclonal antibodies in an intramuscular injection.

There are two available – free palivizumab and paid nirsevimab.

As part of the B.40 drug program, which concerns the prevention of RSV virus (RSV) infections, the drug Synagis (palivizumab) is used. Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by neutralizing the RSV virus, reducing the risk of severe lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children.

The B.40 program is aimed at children from groups at high risk of severe RSV infection. These groups include, m.in: infants born prematurely (before 35 weeks of gestation), especially those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, children with congenital heart defects, children with cystic fibrosis up to 1 year of age, children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) up to 2 years of age.

Palivizumab is given as monthly intramuscular injections during the season of increased risk of RSV infections, typically from October to March in 3-5 doses.

In the case of nirsevimab, antibodies persist in the body for about 6 months, so one dose of Beyfortus is enough to protect the child for the entire infectious season.

A prescription for Beyfortus can be prescribed by a paediatrician. Its price starts at about PLN 1700. The drug is indicated for administration to newborns and infants in the first season of RSV infections for them, which in Poland lasts from October to May.

Check availability and book here:

https://www.gdziepolek.pl/produkty/132554/beyfortus-iniekcja/apteki

More here:

https://www.gdziepolek.pl/blog/wirus-rsv-czy-czeka-nas-epidemia-wsrod-dzieci