In the fall of 2024, The Ontario Ministry of Health announced a new medication to help prevent the spread of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in infants and babies, offering hope to parents and healthcare providers alike.
The new medication, Beyfortus, is a preventative, ready-made antibody that can be given to babies soon after birth. This one-time injection helps prevent the spread of RSV to this vulnerable group.
RSV is a common viral infection that affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and toddlers. While it often causes mild cold-like symptoms, it can develop into a severe illness that leads to hospitalization. RSV spreads easily from person to person and is most active from late fall to early spring.
Thanks to the work of our pediatric team at Group Health Centre (GHC), nearly 200 babies are now protected by this new antibody.
Beyfortus provides protection and immunity against RSV as soon as it is received. Since its rollout, GHC has been able to administer 191 doses to babies born during the 2024-2025 RSV season – providing them with a level of protection that was previously unavailable.
The pediatric team at GHC worked quickly once the news of this new medication came out, calling parents and caregivers to alert them that their newborn was eligible to receive protection against this virus.
At GHC, we know firsthand the effects that RSV can have on families. Our pediatric team has an excellent knowledge base to help guide parents through this virus and preventive care.
“This new antibody is such a relief for so many families in our community,” explained Sandi, a Registered Nurse on GHC’s pediatric team. “RSV can be especially dangerous for newborns, premature babies, and those with underlying health conditions. The arrival of Beyfortus has given us a powerful tool in our fight to protect these vulnerable children.”
Parents who have already received the medication for their babies have expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity. “They feel so much better knowing their babies are protected,” said Sandi. “RSV is a huge concern, especially with how easily it spreads. This medication has given them peace of mind, and parents are so thankful when their children receive it.”
The impact of Beyfortus extends beyond the babies who receive the treatment. Health experts are hopeful that widespread use of the medication will reduce the number of hospitalizations and the burden on healthcare systems. With the new medication now available, healthcare providers are optimistic that this could mark a turning point in the battle against RSV.
The success of GHC’s RSV initiative marks a significant advancement in healthcare and offers hope for a future in which fewer infants are affected by the virus.
Thank you to GHC’s Pediatric Team, who led this initiative to help protect so many babies in our community!
