A NATIONWIDE immunisation program has been launched to shield infants from severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which includes Sanofi's Beyfortus (nirsevimab).
Announced yesterday by Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler, the new program will offer eligible infants free protection during winter when RSV outbreaks peak.
The initiative combines infant and maternal immunisation to provide coverage for those most at risk.
Beyfortus, already helping reduce RSV-related hospital admissions in Qld and WA, will be accessible via hospitals, immunisation clinics, and GPs.
The program will target newborns, infants in their first RSV season, and children up to 24 months, who are still at risk of severe RSV complications.
RSV is a seasonal virus that can lead to serious respiratory conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, with about 12,000 Australian infants under one admitted annually due to severe RSV.
Healthy children make up 80% of these hospitalisations.
Sanofi RSV Medical Lead Dr Desiree Anthony praised the govt's leadership, stating this program will ensure all infants nationwide have protection.
He added Sanofi will collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure a smooth rollout by 2025, aiming to curb Australia's rising RSV cases.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 11 Nov 24
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