- Newborns are eligible for protection against the RSV virus, which can cause serious respiratory illness and lead to hospitalization in infants.
- If a mother received the RSV vaccine during pregnancy at least two weeks before delivery, the baby is already protected and does not need additional treatment.
- If the mother did not receive the RSV vaccine, the baby can receive an RSV immunoglobulin for direct protection.
- The RSV immunoglobulin provides ready-made antibodies, giving babies immediate defense against the virus.
- This protection method is safe, has no significant side effects, and effectively helps infants build resistance to respiratory illnesses early in life.
Does Your Baby Need the RSV Vaccine?
Infants and older adults are most at risk for severe health outcomes from RSV and babies are most at risk for severe RSV infections during their first cold and flu season. So, what can you do to protect them?
Erik Shessler, MD, Pediatrics
