Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common infection that affects the airways and lungs. It is a type of
respiratory illness.
RSV is common in babies and young children, and most children are infected with RSV by 2 years of age. RSV is usually mild but can cause serious illness in all babies, especially those who are born early or with underlying medical conditions.
RSV season typically starts in late fall and lasts until spring.
Medicine to prevent RSV in babies
There are safe and effective medicines to help protect babies against RSV and reduce their risk of serious illness. These medicines are called
monoclonal antibodies. Given by injection, they provide immediate, short-term protection against RSV. One example is
Beyfortus (nirsevimab).
If your baby is born in a hospital in Alberta from November 1 to March 31, your baby will be offered a monoclonal antibody medicine to protect them from RSV. The only way for most babies to receive this medicine is in the hospital after delivery. Talk to your baby’s healthcare provider if you have questions.
Babies born outside of the RSV season and older children are only eligible to receive Beyfortus if they are at high risk of severe infection, for example, those with chronic lung disease.
Learn more about the
infant RSV prevention program (Government of Alberta).
A monoclonal antibody is not a vaccine.
- A vaccine helps your body to create its own antibodies to protect against a disease, which can build long-term immunity. Antibodies are proteins made by your body's natural defense system (immune system). These proteins help to fight foreign or harmful substances, like infections.
- Monoclonal antibodies are medicines that act like natural antibodies for specific diseases. They supply antibodies directly. This can provide protection more quickly and can stop or slow the progress of a disease. Monoclonal antibodies have been designed to treat and prevent many conditions, including providing protection against serious respiratory illness from RSV in babies.
Other ways to prevent RSV in babies
There are several steps you can take to prevent or limit the spread of RSV to your baby and family.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with anyone who has cold-like symptoms.
- Clean and disinfect regularly used surfaces and items.
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes.
- Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings.
If you got the
RSV vaccine while you were pregnant, your baby may not need monoclonal antibodies.
More information
Learn more about
RSV. For information about the RSV prevention program in Alberta, talk to your doctor, nurse practitioner, midwife, or prenatal care team.
