RSV Vaccine Shortage Sparks CDC Guidelines Update

Due to a drug shortage and a rise in cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants, health officials have revised their recommendations for RSV shots. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now advises prioritizing higher doses of the monoclonal antibody shot for babies younger than six months and infants with underlying conditions. Parents of children aged 8 to 19 months should consider another monoclonal antibody, palivizumab, if eligible. The CDC's tightened recommendations come as RSV cases spike nationwide, primarily in the southeastern U.S. The drug shortage has led to delays in administering RSV shots, which are crucial in preventing severe disease in infants.