RSV antibody shot in high demand as cases rise in southern U.S.
ATLANTA – With the rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases in parts of the southern U.S., demand for the RSV antibody shot has hit an all-time high. The Beyfortus antibody shot, manufactured by AstraZeneca and Sanofi, was approved by the FDA in July to prevent RSV in infants and children up to 24 months old.
Parents like Alexandra Perez, mother of Lucas Cerna, are taking extra precautions to protect their children from the virus. “I have just been seeing a lot in the news, and babies get really sick, so I was like, might as well just do it,” Perez told CBS News.
However, the increased demand has caused the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to recommend pediatricians only give the shot to their most vulnerable patients, including infants younger than six months and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Jennifer Shu at Children’s Medical Group in Atlanta emphasized the importance of the RSV antibody shot in preventing hospitalizations, pneumonia, and even death. “We’re hoping it’s going to really cut down in hospitalizations, as well as complications like pneumonia or even death,” said Shu.
According to the CDC, parts of the southern U.S. have seen a rise in RSV transmission in recent months. Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, reported more than 200 positive RSV cases last week.
RSV symptoms include a high fever, worsening cough, and trouble breathing, which can lead to hospitalization and even death, especially in infants.
Chris Comstock recounted how his 20-month-old daughter Adilynn fought for her life in the hospital for nine days after contracting RSV in September. “I have zero control, sitting in that hospital room, knowing I can do nothing to help my child. And then watching her walk and run and get back to health again. You can’t put a price tag on the thankfulness that we have,” Comstock said.
The high demand for the RSV antibody shot underscores the urgency in addressing the rising cases of RSV in the southern U.S. as families seek to protect their vulnerable infants and children.