"Experts Approve Universal RSV Vaccine for Infants"
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has unanimously recommended a new antibody shot to protect all infants under 8 months of age against severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the leading cause of hospitalization in children under one year old. ACIP also recommended a second dose of nirsevimab for certain infants aged 8 to 19 months with underlying health issues. The shot, marketed as Beyfortus, is the first product available to protect all newborns against RSV. The recommendations will expand access to the therapy, which can be costly, and insurance plans are mandated to cover ACIP-recommended immunizations with no cost sharing. Clinical trials showed the injection reduced the risk of hospitalization due to RSV by about 75% and prevented the need for intensive care for babies with RSV by 90%.