What is RSV?
Respiratory syncytial virus is an infection that affects the lungs and breathing passageways. For older children, this may just feel like a common cold. However, for infants and younger children this may develop into a respiratory illness. Normally, we expect RSV to be a full week of illness with day 3-4 being the peak of illness before improving.
Symptoms of RSV include:
- coughing
- fast breathing
- wheezing
- difficulty breathing
- lethargy and more
Find more information on RSV symptoms and Prevention here
What is Beyfortus?
- Pediatric Services will be administering Beyfortus (nirsevimab) to infants under 8 months starting October 1, 2025. Beyfortus is a monoclonal antibody injection that has been shown to be 95% effective in preventing RSV related clinic visits and hospitalizations. Beyfortus does not stimulate the body to produce antibodies that fight RSV like our typical vaccines, but instead it is a direct injection of antibodies that fight RSV. The effects last about 4-6 months. It does not completely prevent babies from getting RSV, but has been shown to be effective in preventing RSV from progressing into the lower respiratory tract (lungs) and preventing severe illness or hospitalization.
Will my baby be able to get Beyfortus at Pediatric Services?
- If your baby has an upcoming well visit this fall, they will be offered Beyfortus at that time. If your baby is between 6 and 8 months old, call the nurse line to schedule a nurse visit to receive Beyfortus: 952-922-4200 - Ext: 2
I am expecting. Can my baby get Beyfortus in the hospital?
- Most likely, yes, if your baby is born during respiratory illness season (approximately October-March). Most major hospitals should carry Beyfortus and offer this to patients prior to discharge when available. Babies born in late spring and summer months can get Beyfortus the following fall.
Which children should receive Beyfortus at 8-19 months?
- Some children with complex health conditions will be able to receive Beyfortus a second time. Talk to your provider if you think your child might qualify.
What is Flu?
Flu—short for influenza—is an illness caused by a respiratory virus. The flu can spread rapidly through communities, as the virus is passed person to person.
When someone with the flu coughs or sneezes, the influenza virus gets into the air. Then, people nearby, including children, can inhale it through the nose or mouth.
The virus also can be spread when people touch a contaminated hard surface, such as a door handle, and then put their hands or fingers in their nose or mouth, or rub their eyes.
Flu symptoms include:
- A sudden fever (usually above 100.4°F or 38°C)
- Chills
- Headache, body aches, and being a lot more tired than usual
- Sore throat
- Dry, hacking cough
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Some children may throw up (vomit) and have loose stools (diarrhea).
Find more information on Flu symptoms and prevention here