4 Common Questions Answered About the New Monoclonal Antibody to Help Prevent Severe RSV in Babies
CHICAGO, Oct. 11, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In fall of 2022, the United States saw an early and significant spike in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, which is the leading cause of hospitalizations in all infants. Today, the American Lung Association launched a campaign to help inform parents of infants and young children, as well as caregivers, about RSV and the new preventative options that can protect their children.
- RSV is so common that nearly 100% of children have been infected with the virus by age two.
- Here are answers to four common questions about how to help prevent RSV in babies:
Is nirsevimab a vaccine? - No, it is a long-acting monoclonal antibody injection that provides an extra layer of defense to help prevent RSV disease.
- The protection provided by this preventative antibody is called passive immunity because external antibodies are given to help protect against RSV.