Beyfortus monoclonal antibody reduces RSV hospitalizations in children

A recent study conducted by Belgian researchers indicates that the administration of the monoclonal antibody Beyfortus has significantly reduced hospitalizations caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children under five. Comparing the 2024-2025 season to the previous year, data shows a 39% decrease in hospitalizations for this age group and a 57% drop in pediatric intensive care admissions.

The impact is most pronounced in infants under six months old, who saw a 66% reduction in RSV-related hospitalizations. Dr. Marc Raes, a pediatrician in Hasselt, noted that the immunization reduces the need for respiratory or nutritional assistance, thereby easing the pressure on hospitals during peak winter months.

RSV typically circulates between October and March. In Belgium, RSV infections previously resulted in over 10,000 annual hospitalizations for children under five. For the upcoming 2025-2026 season, Sciensano anticipates an 82.5% efficacy rate for the immunization against RSV-related hospitalizations.