RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common fall and winter virus that generally causes mild cold symptoms in older children and adults. But for infants, especially premature babies, it can cause more serious illness including bronchiolitis and pneumonia. There is a newly approved RSV immunization that can help protect vulnerable children and reduce the risk of serious infection or complications.
Beyfortus (generic nirsevimab) is a dose of monoclonal antibodies against RSV that starts to provide protection immediately, compared with traditional vaccines which stimulate the immune system to produce its own antibodies over time. One shot of nirsevimab is expected to last through the whole RSV season, approximately 5 months. Beyfortus is recommended for all babies under the age of 8 months, and children 8 to 19 months of age with conditions that put them at high risk of more severe illness with RSV such as prematurity, chronic lung or heart disease, or an impaired immune system.
Beyfortus is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control, and the providers of Bethesda Pediatrics. Unfortunately, information on insurance reimbursement has been noncommittal. For that reason, we are requiring a nonrefundable payment of $550 in advance for the immunization, administration fee, and associated office visit. Completion of a waiver (available on our website) and payment in full is required to secure a dose for your child. We will refund whatever cost is covered by your insurance plan.
As time permits our staff will be reaching out to eligible families to assist with ordering and scheduling. Please feel free to call the office if you are ready to order a dose for your child or have further questions about this immunization.