A doctor administers a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine to an infant in her pediatric practice
Two new immunizations, Pfizer's Abrysvo for pregnant patients and Sanofi's monoclonal antibody Beyfortus for babies, promise protection against RSV
These immunizations aim to safeguard infants from RSV complications and were recently approved, coinciding with the RSV season's onset
The tight timeline poses challenges, such as insurance coverage and the cost of immunizations, making providers hesitant to stock them
Delays and uncertainties threaten the timely protection of babies this winter and hinder the launch of these drugs
Providers, like Michael Chamberlin at Pediatric Associates of Mt. Carmel, face difficulties in obtaining insurance coverage information for Beyfortus
RSV, often resembling a cold in adults, can be severe for newborns, seniors, and those with chronic medical conditions
Synagis, a monthly monoclonal antibody, was the only preventive treatment available, primarily for high-risk babies
Abrysvo and Beyfortus work differently but both reduce the risk of severe RSV disease or hospitalization by over 50%
These new options provide hope for parents like Erin Bakke, who received a Beyfortus shot for her 4-month-old son, offering a chance to prevent RSV-related illnesses