Illustration: Protecting Infants from RSV with Palivizumab

RSV Prevention: Is Palivizumab Right for Your Baby? A Parent's Guide

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Reese Marlowe in Health & Wellness May 2025 • 4 min read.

"Navigating the complexities of RSV prevention with expert consensus on palivizumab use in developed countries."


Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that affects people of all ages. For infants and young children, however, RSV can be particularly dangerous, leading to bronchiolitis and pneumonia, requiring hospitalization. Understanding RSV and how to protect your child is crucial for every parent.

Palivizumab is an antibody medication used to prevent severe RSV disease in high-risk infants and children. It's not a vaccine, but rather provides passive immunity, offering protection during the RSV season. The decision to use palivizumab involves carefully weighing the benefits and risks, as well as considering cost and availability.

This article breaks down the latest expert consensus on palivizumab use, offering clear, actionable information to help you make informed decisions about your child's health. We'll explore who is most at risk, what the experts recommend, and what other options you should consider.

Who is Most at Risk for Severe RSV?

Illustration: Protecting Infants from RSV with Palivizumab

While any infant can contract RSV, certain groups are at a higher risk of developing severe illness, requiring hospitalization. Identifying these risk factors is the first step in determining if palivizumab might be a suitable preventive measure for your child.

According to the expert consensus, the following groups of infants and children are considered at higher risk:

  • Premature Infants: Infants born before 29 weeks gestation are at the highest risk, particularly those under 9 months old at the start of the RSV season.
  • Infants Born Between 29-35 Weeks Gestation: While the risk is lower than for those born before 29 weeks, these infants, especially those with additional risk factors, may benefit from palivizumab.
  • Children with Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) or Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD): Children under 24 months with CLD or BPD are at increased risk of severe RSV.
  • Children with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD): Infants and children under 24 months with significant congenital heart disease may require palivizumab.
  • Children with Down Syndrome: Due to immune system differences and potential anatomical abnormalities, children with Down syndrome are more vulnerable to severe RSV.
  • Children with Anatomic Pulmonary Abnormalities or Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions that impair airway clearance, such as cerebral palsy or certain genetic disorders, increase RSV risk.
  • Immunocompromised Children: Children with weakened immune systems due to conditions like severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) or those undergoing chemotherapy are highly susceptible to severe RSV.
It's important to remember that these are general guidelines. Your pediatrician will assess your child's individual risk factors, medical history, and local RSV trends to determine the best course of action.

Making an Informed Decision

Deciding whether or not to use palivizumab for your child is a personal one that should be made in partnership with your pediatrician. By understanding the risks and benefits, considering your child's individual circumstances, and discussing your concerns with your doctor, you can make the best choice to protect your child during RSV season. Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider and stay informed about the latest recommendations to ensure your child's health and well-being.

Everything You Need To Know

1

What exactly is RSV?

RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a common respiratory virus that can affect individuals of all ages. However, it poses a significant threat to infants and young children, potentially leading to severe complications such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Understanding RSV and its impact is crucial for protecting children. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing RSV and taking preventive measures, especially for high-risk groups.

2

What is Palivizumab?

Palivizumab is an antibody medication used to prevent severe RSV disease in high-risk infants and children. Unlike a vaccine, which stimulates the body's immune system to produce antibodies, Palivizumab provides passive immunity. This means it directly provides antibodies to protect against RSV during the RSV season. Its use is a critical intervention for safeguarding vulnerable children from severe complications associated with RSV.

3

Who is most at risk for severe RSV?

Infants born prematurely (before 29 weeks gestation) are at the highest risk of severe RSV illness, particularly those under 9 months old at the start of the RSV season. Other high-risk groups include infants born between 29 and 35 weeks gestation, children with Chronic Lung Disease (CLD) or Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD), those with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), and children with Down Syndrome. Additionally, children with anatomic pulmonary abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders, or weakened immune systems are also at increased risk.

4

How is the decision made to use Palivizumab?

The decision to use Palivizumab should be a collaborative process between the parent and the pediatrician. The decision involves carefully weighing the benefits, risks, cost, and availability of the medication. Considering the child's individual risk factors, medical history, and local RSV trends is essential. The article highlights the importance of open communication with healthcare providers and staying informed about the latest recommendations to ensure the child's health and well-being.

5

Besides Palivizumab, are there other ways to prevent RSV?

While the article primarily focuses on Palivizumab, it is implied that other preventive measures can include good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with individuals who are sick. These practices help limit the spread of RSV. The article underscores the importance of being informed and consulting with healthcare providers to determine the best approach for protecting children, especially those at high risk, during RSV season.

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