Title: US CDC Distributes Additional RSV Immunization Doses Amid Shortage
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has taken action to address the shortage of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization, nirsevimab, by announcing the immediate distribution of over 77,000 additional doses. The shortage has raised concerns among public health officials, especially as the nation enters the winter season, known for increased respiratory virus transmission.
Nirsevimab, marketed as Beyfortus, is a long-acting monoclonal antibody administered via injection to safeguard infants from severe RSV infections, which is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants. The CDC plans to deliver these doses to doctor’s offices and hospitals through its Vaccines for Children Program, as well as commercial channels.
The scarcity of nirsevimab has emerged due to the high demand and limited supply. In response, the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are closely coordinating with manufacturers to ensure that more doses become available by the end of this year and early next year.
RSV primarily affects the lower lungs and can cause breathing difficulties and feeding challenges for infants. According to CDC data, there have been approximately seven hospitalizations per 100,000 people during the 2023-24 respiratory virus season. However, children aged four and younger experienced a significantly higher hospitalization rate of 18.8 per 100,000.
One of the challenges faced in distributing the immunization lies in the Vaccines for Children program, as only 10% to 15% of birthing hospitals traditionally participate. The American Hospital Association is collaborating with the CDC to address this disparity, especially as the goal is to administer the immunization to newborns before they leave the hospital. The association is committed to finding new pathways to ensure more hospitals have access to the immunization in the future.
Cost and supply shortages of the 100-milligram dose present additional challenges. Despite these obstacles, health officials remain optimistic that lessons learned from this season’s difficulties will improve access to the immunization in future respiratory virus seasons.
As winter approaches, the CDC’s decision to distribute additional doses of nirsevimab provides a glimmer of hope for parents and caregivers seeking to protect their infants from RSV-related hospitalizations. Continued coordination between public health organizations, manufacturers, and hospitals will be essential to ensure the availability and accessibility of nirsevimab in the coming months.
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