What is an RSV infection?
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause bronchiolitis. Bronchiolitis is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. The epidemic period begins in autumn and ends at the end of winter. In some cases, it can lead to hospitalisation or even a stay in intensive care unit.
What is Beyfortus®?
Beyfortus® is a preventive medicine that reduces the risk of RSV infection in children. It contains an antibody (which differentiates it from a vaccine), nirsevimab, which targets RSV.
How is it administered?
Your paediatrician will determine the dose to be administered according to your child’s weight and will give an injection into the thigh muscle. A single injection is effective for at least 5 months and covers an entire epidemic season. The injection can be given at the same time as other childhood vaccines.
The injection will be indicated in your child’s vaccination record.
What are the potential side effects?
Like all medicines, Beyfortus® can sometimes cause side effects. These generally appear in the days following the injection and are of low intensity and short duration.
Possible side effects include
- A skin rash
- A reaction at the injection site (redness, swelling, pain)
- Fever
If you notice any of these signs in your child after the injection, tell the healthcare team or call your doctor.
With or without Beyfortus®, don’t forget to apply the basic preventive measures:
- Wash your hands regularly
- Air the bedroom and living areas
- Avoid exposure to tobacco
- Avoid confined and busy places (supermarkets, public transport, etc.)
- Avoid contact with people who have a cold
- Wear a mask if you are ill
- Avoid sharing dummies, feeding bottles and toys with other children, and wash them regularly.
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