With respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season well under way, complicated by a temporary shortage of a new treatment, the Texas Medical Association has compiled a frequently-asked-questions (FAQ) document to help inform physicians on available preventive treatments for mothers and infants at risk of the illness.
The Texas Department of State Health Services reports a high number of RSV cases, which peaked in December. RSV season typically runs from October through March and can extend into May. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in January issued updated guidance regarding RSV vaccines amid changes in supply of the recently approved treatment for young children.
Compiled by TMA’s Committee on Infectious Diseases, TMA’s FAQ document explains the child monoclonal antibody injections nirsevimab (Beyfortus) and palivizumab (Synagis); the maternal vaccine Abrysvo; and the latest recommendations from national public health agencies, including CDC, the Food and Drug Administration, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
El Paso pediatric infectious disease specialist Gilberto Handal, MD, says immunizing pregnant women helps children, too, as mothers pass along the antibody once the child is born.
“It’s believed the antibodies will stay in the child for about four to five months in order to get them through the RSV season,” the consultant to TMA’s Committee on Infectious Diseases said.
Dr. Handal adds that, while RSV rates have been high this year, the number of patients getting what he described as very sick generally has been low due to effective vaccine distribution.
For more resources, visit TMA’s Vaccines webpage.
Last Updated On
January 19, 2024
Originally Published On
January 19, 2024
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