Belgium health officials recommend RSV antibody treatment for infants

Health authorities in Belgium are urging parents to protect infants against the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as the seasonal epidemic typically runs from October through March. While the virus often causes mild cold-like symptoms in adults and older children, it can lead to severe respiratory issues, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia in infants and high-risk groups.

In Belgium, nearly 14,500 children under the age of five are infected annually, with approximately 3,000 requiring hospitalization. Globally, RSV is cited as the second leading cause of death in infants. To combat this, medical professionals are recommending the administration of nirsevimab, marketed under the name Beyfortus.

Unlike a traditional vaccine, Beyfortus is a monoclonal antibody that provides immediate protection. Data from AZ Turnhout indicates that the use of this treatment has led to a 70% reduction in RSV-related hospitalizations at their facility. Sciensano advises that babies born between February 19 and October 1 are eligible to receive the treatment to mitigate the risk of severe illness.