Title: American Academy of Pediatrics Urges Equitable Access to New Antibody Protecting Infants from RSV
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended the use of a groundbreaking new preventive antibody called nirsevimab to shield infants from severe illness caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This long-acting monoclonal antibody not only bolsters the immune system but also provides an additional layer of defense against severe RSV illness.
To ensure equitable access to nirsevimab, the AAP has emphasized the need for wider availability, although it acknowledges that immediate access may not be universal across all clinical settings. In the meantime, the AAP continues to recommend the use of palivizumab, another monoclonal antibody, during the upcoming 2023-2024 RSV season for high-risk children who may not have access to nirsevimab.
Recently approved by the FDA under the brand name Beyfortus, nirsevimab has demonstrated its efficacy in reducing the risk of medically attended RSV cases by an impressive 75% in clinical trials. The AAP recommends a single dose of nirsevimab for all infants below the age of 8 months during their first RSV season and for infants and children aged 8 to 19 months at an increased risk of severe RSV disease during their subsequent season.
Promoting equitable access to nirsevimab, the AAP calls for improved infrastructure in hospitals, birthing centers, and ambulatory practice settings to ensure that disparities in access are avoided. Furthermore, the AAP has urged federal officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), to support the delivery of nirsevimab and make it available and affordable in all communities.
Dr. Sandy Chung, President of the AAP, highlighted the dangers of RSV and its devastating consequences for families. She stressed the importance of providing protection against the virus to all infants. Without significant structural changes, families in lower-income and under-resourced communities, as well as those with infants at high risk for severe RSV illness, may face challenges accessing nirsevimab.
The AAP, an organization comprising 67,000 primary care pediatricians and specialists, remains dedicated to the health, safety, and well-being of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. The AAP’s clinical recommendations for nirsevimab are published in Red Book Online, the Academy’s pediatric infectious diseases manual, ensuring that healthcare professionals stay informed and educated about this critical preventive measure against RSV.
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