Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Prevention

RSV Overview 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes acute respiratory tract infections in people of all ages and can cause severe illness in infants, as well as children with certain health conditions. Approximately 58,000-80,000 US children under the age of 5 and up to 3% of children in their first year of life are hospitalized due to RSV infection each year. Most children will get an RSV infection before the age of 2 years, and approximately 20-30% of infected children will develop a lower respiratory tract infection, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Reinfection is common and is usually less severe than the initial infection.  

In the US, RSV typically circulates from the fall, peaks in December or January and continues through the spring. It is transmitted by direct or close contact with  infected people or from touching contaminated surfaces.  

RSV Prevention Products  

The following are products to prevent severe RSV infection in children. 

Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) and Clesrovimab (Enflonsia) 

Nirsevimab and clesrovimab are monoclonal antibody products that offer protection against RSV infection during the RSV season. They are included in the Vaccines for Children Program and are recommended for all infants (not otherwise protected through vaccination during pregnancy). Clesrovimab is intended for children in their first RSV season, while nirsevimab can be used in the first and/or second RSV season.  

Professional Education Resources