On August 29, the long-acting monoclonal
antibody Levitra (nisetumomab injection/Nirsevimab) arrived at Beijing United Family Hospital & Clinics (BJU) for the
prevention of lower respiratory tract infections caused by Respiratory
Syncytial Virus (RSV) in newborns and infants.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a
common virus that can be contracted throughout the year. In the northern part of the country, the season typically lasts from October to March.
RSV infections in children are
characterized by rapid changes, which may start with only a runny nose, nasal
congestion, and fever but soon progress to lower respiratory symptoms such as
shortness of breath, wheezing, and moaning. Infants and young children up to
the age of two, especially those under six months old, are susceptible to severe
infections. Young infants under one year of age who are severely infected by
syncytial viruses are at significantly increased risk for recurrent wheezing,
asthma, and other conditions.
Picture source: Bigstock
There is no effective pediatric vaccine against RSV other than long-acting monoclonal antibodies.
Since the arrival of this new injection, we've received many questions from parents about it. Below are answers to some of the most common questions our pediatricians have received.
Is this drug a vaccine?
No. Nisevirizumab injections (commonly
known as RSV monoclonal antibody) are a long-acting monoclonal antibody that
prevents respiratory syncytial virus infections and is understood to be a
medication, not a vaccine. Unlike a vaccine, it is an antibody in its own right
that binds directly to the RSV virus and stops it from harming your child.
Can I get an injection if my child is a newborn?
Congratulations on your newborn! This antibody protects newborns and infants under the age of one who are about to enter or were born during their first RSV season. Children born prematurely, with congenital heart disease, or who are immunocompromised
are especially in need of protection.
Picture source: Bigstock
Does it work? How long does it protect?
Data show that the RSV monoclonal antibody
reduces severe cases or hospitalizations by about 70-80%. Although there is no
100% guarantee that a child will not be infected, these antibodies are present
in the body immediately after receiving the monoclonal antibody injection and
last for at least five months.
How many shots do I need?
One shot is enough to protect against infection.
What is the injection dose?
Here are the dosages based on your child's weight:
For infants weighing <5 kg, the recommended dose is a single intramuscular injection of 50 mg;
For infants weighing ≥5kg, the recommended dose is a single intramuscular injection of 100mg.
My child just had a respiratory syncytial
virus infection this year. Can they still get the shot?
Some children get sick at the beginning of the season or before the season and can still be injected when they have recovered. Children can benefit from this if they are still in the
first infection season after birth.
Are there any adverse reactions to RSV monoclonal antibody injections?
Current reports indicate that the most
common adverse reactions are rash, fever, and injection site reactions, though these occur at a very low rate.
What should I do if I can't schedule all my
baby's many vaccinations?
RSV monoclonal antibody is not a vaccine
and can be given at the same time as other childhood vaccinations (it will be injected in a different spot). If you are concerned, you can
talk to your doctor about staggering it with other vaccinations.
The RSV antibody is currently available at:
Beijing United Family Hospital
Beijing United Family Women’s & Children’s Hospital
Beijing United Family Hospital of Integrative Medicine (Dongcheng District)
United Family Tianzhu Clinic (Shunyi District)
United Family Jianguomen Clinic
United Family Financial Street Clinic
United Family Guangqumen Clinic
United Family Wudaokou Clinic
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