Metro Pediatrics offers the Beyfortus immunization to help protect our youngest patients from RSV. Unlike standard vaccines that build immunity over time, Beyfortus is a monoclonal antibody that provides rapid protection against RSV for up to a year.
Who is Eligible for Beyfortus?
All infants up to 8 months of age are eligible to receive the immunization at the start of their first RSV season, which typically runs from October to March.
Beyfortus is also approved for older infants up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable through their second RSV season. These are children who:
- Have high-risk conditions, such as chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, or cystic fibrosis
- Are severely immunocompromised
- Are American Indian and/or Alaska Native
Please note: If your baby received this immunization at the end of last season (March 2024), they’re generally not eligible to receive it again unless they have specific health conditions. Additionally, if your baby’s mother received the RSV vaccine while pregnant, your baby may not need this immunization.
When Should My Child Receive a Dose of Beyfortus?
- Babies born during or shortly before RSV season should receive a single dose of Beyfortus within a week of birth.
- Infants under 8 months old should receive a single dose of Beyfortus shortly before the start of RSV season.
- Babies 8 to 19 months of age who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease should receive a single dose of Beyfortus shortly before the start of their second RSV season.
How Can My Child Receive Beyfortus?
Metro Pediatrics is scheduling appointments now for patients to receive the Beyfortus immunization. Contact Metro schedulers at 833-PDX-KIDS or book an office visit online with your child’s medical provider.
Beyfortus can also be given during a well-child exam if your child has one scheduled this fall before they turn 8 months old.
What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common and potentially serious illness that primarily affects young children, especially those under the age of 2. The common virus circulates annually and can cause symptoms ranging from a runny nose to severe respiratory distress resulting in a significant number of hospitalizations among infants. In adults, the symptoms mimic a common cold.
What is Beyfortus?
Beyfortus is a long-acting monoclonal antibody that is used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in newborns and infants up to 24 months of age. It was approved by the FDA in July 2023 and is currently available for the 2024-2025 RSV season.
Beyfortus is given as a single injection and is effective for up to 12 months. It is recommended for newborns and infants born during or entering their first RSV season, as well as infants who remain vulnerable through their second RSV season, such as those with congenital heart disease or chronic lung disease.
Why is Metro Pediatrics Excited to Offer Beyfortus?
Beyfortus is a preventive antibody that gives babies protection against RSV, a common respiratory virus that can cause serious illness in young children. It is estimated that RSV causes up to 80,000 hospitalizations and 100 to 300 deaths in children under the age of 5 each year in the United States.
Beyfortus is safe and effective. The most common side effects are mild and go away on their own. These side effects can include fever, rash, and injection site reactions.
Beyfortus protects high-risk infants from RSV LRTD. It is expected to make a significant impact on the number of RSV-related hospitalizations and deaths in young children.
“Monoclonal antibodies act like a shield against a virus,” said Dr. Paul Cieslak, Oregon Health Authority senior health advisor and medical director, Communicable Diseases and Immunizations program. “That’s critical because we have no vaccine against RSV for the young babies who are at highest risk. [Beyfortus] is an important development because, unlike existing monoclonal antibody medication, its protection can last through the entire RSV season.”
What Are the Side Effects of Beyfortus?
The most common side effects of Beyfortus are mild and go away on their own within a few days. These side effects may include:
- Skin rash
- Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site
- Mild allergic reaction
Serious side effects, such as anaphylaxis, are rare but possible. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If your child experiences any of these symptoms after receiving Beyfortus, seek medical attention immediately. Always call your doctor if any other symptoms concern you.
It’s important to note that the benefits of Beyfortus outweigh the risks for most infants. Beyfortus is a safe and effective way to protect infants from serious respiratory illness caused by RSV.
Symptoms of RSV in Children
RSV often starts with symptoms similar to the common cold, such as a runny nose and cough. However, it can progress to more severe symptoms like wheezing and difficulty breathing, which is particularly concerning in infants. Recognizing these symptoms early can make a significant difference in a child’s recovery.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Parents should offer home care for mild symptoms. Call your pediatrician if your child has a fever of 103°F or higher, a fever that lasts more than 3 days, or signs of an ear infection. Seek immediate care if your child experiences labored breathing, shallow or rapid breaths, wheezing, dehydration, lips, tongue, or skin turning gray or blue, or significant decrease in activity and increase in lethargy.
Pediatricians stress the importance of seeking medical attention if your child is under the age of 2 and shows symptoms of RSV. Timely intervention can prevent the progression of the virus and its potential complications. Contact your primary care pediatrician immediately if you suspect RSV. Metro Pediatrics offers RSV testing to diagnose a current infection.
