Now available: Beyfortus, RSV protection for infants

Beyfortus is a one-time shot given in the thigh that provides very good protection against RSV. All infants under 8 months of age during RSV season are eligible. Additionally, children 8-19 months old during their second RSV season, who are at high risk of severe disease such as those who are severely immunocompromised or have severe lung disease.

It is recommended that babies born during RSV season get the Beyfortus injection within the first week of life to provide the most protection. Babies born before RSV season can get the injection as soon as it is available.

Beyfortus is not technically a vaccine. Vaccines cause the body to make antibodies to protect us. Beyfortus is an injection of antibodies directly into the body. If the body is then exposed to RSV, the antibodies are there to fight it and hopefully clear it quickly, so we don’t get very sick!

The data on Beyfortus’ effectiveness is great! A Phase 3 clinical trial showed that Beyfortus reduced the risk of needing to see the doctor for RSV by 80%. It also reduced the risk of hospitalization by 80%. Other good news, there was no difference in adverse effects between the placebo and control groups, in other words, no side effects.

We are recommending that all eligible patients get Beyfortus this fall/winter. We will be offering it at Willows both at regularly scheduled well visits and at clinics to make sure all eligible babies get the opportunity to receive it.

Our first Beyfortus clinic will be Friday October 13, 10 am - 1 pm. Please call the office if you’d like to schedule your less than 8 month old infant for this clinic.

Keep in mind, we will also be offering the vaccine at well visits so if your child has an upcoming visit then we can give it to him or her then.