Beyfortus (nirsevimab) RSV immunoglobulin 

​East Bay Pediatrics is proud to offer the new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) monoclonal antibody injection Beyfortus (nirsevimab) in our office. This injection provides antibody protection against RSV to babies under 8 months old and to high risk infants in their first and second winter seasons. The goal is to decrease infant hospitalization and death from this annual winter virus. The injection has been shown to be safe in clinical trials, with few side effects. Infants who receive it will need to be observed in the office for 15 minutes after the injection. 

https://www.beyfortus.com/#important-safety-information

Unfortunately, there have been national shortages of the vaccine as the manufacturer has not been able to make a sufficient quantity. All pediatric clinics and hospitals across the country are affected by this shortage. We do not know when or if we will receive more Beyfortus. We have orders placed and have been in frequent contact with our suppliers so they know that we are eager to get more if possible. We currently have no more doses for babies over 11lbs. We will continue to offer the injection to newborns at their regularly scheduled appointments if doses are available. We are not currently scheduling new appointments for the injection only. ​

Despite advocacy from many physician groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, insurance companies have not yet committed to paying for the injection or the administrative fee. If your insurance does not pay or if your insurance applies this preventive treatment to your deductible, you will be responsible for the remaining balance within 90 days of insurance rejection. 

High risk infants (significantly premature, congenital heart disease, chronic lung disease) still qualify for Synagis which is a monthly vaccine against RSV. This vaccine requires prior authorization. 

In 2023, an RSV vaccine designed for pregnant women was developed. We encourage pregnant mothers to ask their OB about getting Abrysvo between weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy to protect the baby from this respiratory virus. NOTE: do not confuse this maternal vaccine with Arexvy which is the RSV vaccine for those over 60 years old. Baby's grandparents can get Arexvy but this does not give babies direct protection.

As you know East Bay Pediatrics strongly supports vaccination of all children. We are very excited that infants may be afforded better protection against RSV. We hope that the manufacturer will be able to produce more of this vaccine in order to make it available for more babies.