2023-07-18 12:59:24
FDA Approves New Drug to Prevent RSV in Infants and Toddlers
LOS ANGELES, July 18 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the green light to a new drug that aims to protect newborns, infants, and toddlers from RSV, the virus that causes respiratory disease. The drug, named Beyfortus, is a monoclonal antibody specifically developed to combat RSV.
Beyfortus has been approved for use in newborns, infants born during or in the first RSV season, and children up to 24 months of age who remain at risk for severe RSV during the second RSV season. This breakthrough approval comes as good news for parents and healthcare professionals, as RSV can lead to serious illness and often results in hospitalizations in emergency rooms and hospitals.
John Farley, the director of the Bureau of Infectious Diseases at the Drug Evaluation and Research Center of the Office, emphasized the severity of RSV in infants and children. He stated that this approval addresses the urgent demand for products that can mitigate the impact of RSV on the affected children, their families, and the healthcare system.
RSV is a virus that causes acute respiratory tract infections in individuals of all ages. While most infants and young children experience mild flu-like symptoms, some may develop lower respiratory tract diseases like pneumonia and bronchiolitis, especially during their first infection. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, approximately 1-3 percent of children under 12 months in the United States are admitted to hospitals each year due to RSV.
The approval of Beyfortus brings hope in the fight against RSV and its consequences, bringing relief to parents and caregivers. With this new drug available, the chances of severe illness among vulnerable populations can be significantly reduced.
In a related development, a photo taken on March 14, 2022, at an elementary school in Chicago, United States, shows students engaging in their daily activities. The file photo serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children from viral infections like RSV.
Related Tags: RSV, FDA, Beyfortus, infants, toddlers, respiratory disease, monoclonal antibody, John Farley, Bureau of Infectious Diseases, Drug Evaluation and Research Center, American Academy of Pediatrics.]
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