Newborns across the county will now be offered a preventative treatment against the possibly dangerous RS virus, health officials announced. The proactive measure aims to shield infants from severe respiratory illness, particularly during the coming winter season when RS virus cases typically surge.
This expanded protection comes after a recent decision to provide all newly born children with the preventative monoclonal antibody treatment, known as nirsevimab.Approximately six million doses of the drug have already been administered in other countries with a demonstrated safety profile, according to health authorities. The treatment offers passive immunity,helping protect infants who are most vulnerable to severe complications from RS virus.
“This drug is considered very safe,” stated a health official. “Side effects that have been seen have been mild. it is much like with other vaccinations – there may be some redness and tenderness at the injection site and sometimes a little fever. But that is not common.”
The RS virus is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be serious for infants and young children, leading to bronchiolitis and pneumonia. The preventative treatment is intended to significantly reduce the risk of these severe outcomes.Lina Gustavsson photographed the announcement.
