CDC advises providers to give RSV vaccine to certain people due to shortage
The CDC is warning providers about a shortage of a commonly prescribed respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. The agency now advises providers to only give the vaccine to infants at the highest risk of developing RSV.
The vaccine, called Nirsevimab, also known as Beyfortus, is a preventative shot that can provide protection for an entire RSV season. However, the number of RSV cases is rising, and drug providers are struggling to keep up with demand.
The CDC advises doctors only to give RSV vaccine to high-risk infants, but families can take other steps to protect themselves.
Dr. Ganga Moorthy, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Duke University, offered the following advice:
- Pregnant people should talk to their doctor about whether they are eligible for the RSV vaccine. This vaccine can protect their infant from severe RSV.
- Families should be aware of the everyday measures that can help limit the spread of RSV, such as washing hands, covering coughs, cleaning surfaces and staying home when sick.
The drug company Sanofi said it is working closely with its manufacturing partner, AstraZeneca, to accelerate vaccine production.
RSV is a respiratory infection that can be very serious in young children.
Cases of RSV are on the rise, and the Department of Health and Human Services is expected to release the latest numbers Wednesday.
