Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) is recommended for infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during or are entering their first RSV season if:
- The mother did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
- The mother’s RSV vaccination status is unknown.
- The infant was born within 14 days of maternal RSV vaccination.
Complete Children’s Health highly recommends that all babies who qualify for nirsevimab receive this potentially lifesaving immunization.
If your child meets the criteria above, please call our office at 402-465-5600 to schedule an appointment.
When Can My Baby Receive Nirsevimab?
The immunization can be given as early as October 1. Most commercial insurers cover the cost of nirsevimab for eligible patients. However, if you have questions about coverage or cost-sharing, please contact your insurance company for details specific to your policy.
Already have a wellness visit scheduled? If your baby will be seen for a wellness visit during October or November, we can administer nirsevimab during their regular wellness check—so there is no need to schedule an extra appointment!
What Is RSV and Why Can It Be Serious for Infants and Children?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common and easily transmitted viral infection. While RSV may cause mild, cold-like symptoms in many people, it can cause serious illness in infants and certain high-risk children, including difficulty breathing and feeding, respiratory failure, and, in rare cases, death.
RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization among infants. An estimated 2%–3% of U.S. infants younger than 12 months are hospitalized with RSV each year.
RSV season typically occurs during the fall and winter months, although timing can vary.
What Is Nirsevimab (Beyfortus)?
Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) is a long-acting monoclonal antibody that helps protect babies against severe illness caused by RSV.
Unlike a traditional vaccine, nirsevimab provides antibodies directly to the baby rather than stimulating the immune system to produce them. This is known as passive immunization.
Nirsevimab is given as a single injection, and protection is designed to last for approximately five months—about the length of a typical RSV season.
Learn More About RSV
For additional information about RSV, symptoms to watch for, and ways to protect your baby, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics:
RSV: When It’s More Than Just a Cold – HealthyChildren.org