RSV and Nirsevimab
Skagit Pediatrics has received a limited supply of Nirsevimab for this 2023-24 season.
As supply is available, we will be offering this immunization, based on CDC criteria, to our newborns and young infants as they are at highest risk from serious illness and hospitalizations from RSV.
If you are interested in scheduling an appointment please call our office.
What is RSV ?
Almost all children get respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at least once before they are 2 years old. For most healthy children, RSV is like a cold. But some children get very sick with RSV.
RSV infection is the leading cause of hospitalization among U.S. infants.
Infants with RSV infection frequently develop bronchiolitis, a lower respiratory tract infection, that can be severe and result in hospitalization.
Approximately 50,000–80,000 RSV-associated hospitalizations and 100–300 RSV-associated deaths occur annually among U.S. infants and children aged <5 years.
What is Nirsevimab?
Nirsevimab is an injection but it works a little differently than a vaccine. It provides antibodies that start working to protect babies right away. The protection lasts for the duration of a typical RSV season.
Nirsevimab has been shown to reduce the risk of both RSV-related hospitalizations and health care visits in infants by about 80%.
Preventing and Managing Symptoms of RSV for Parents and Caregivers
Even though it is unlikely most children will have access to Nirsevimab this year, there are many ways to help prevent and manage symptoms of RSV. Below are websites that provide excellent advice:
HealthyChildren.org - RSV: When It's More Than Just A Cold
KidsHealth.org - Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Seattle Children's - RSV - Bronchiolitis
Links for further information on RSV and Nirsevimab:
Seattle Children's - What Parents and Caregivers Should Know About RSV
CDC - Nirsevimab Immunization Information Statement
CDC - RSV Immunization for Children
Washington Department of Health - Respiratory Syncytial Virus