New Preventive Medication for RSV Available for Newborns and Infants in Health Unit Region

NEWS RELEASE

NORTH BAY, ON - The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) is pleased to announce the availability of a new preventive medication for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for newborns and eligible infants up to 24 months of age. The treatment, known as Beyfortus, is an injection of antibodies that protects the youngest and most vulnerable population.

RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that typically spreads during the fall and winter months. While many individuals may experience mild, cold-like symptoms, infants are at a higher risk for severe respiratory illness. RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization in infants and, in rare cases, can be life-threatening, leading to complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

“I highly recommend this preventive treatment for infants,” advises Dr. Carol Zimbalatti, Medical Officer of Health for the Health Unit. “It is safe and very effective at preventing RSV in infants in their most vulnerable first year. This is good for infants, their families and for the health care system. No one wants infants to struggle to breathe especially from an avoidable cause.” The preventive antibody treatment is currently being administered to newborns at the hospital shortly after birth. For infants born outside of a hospital setting, those born earlier this year, and infants up to 24 months with specific medical conditions, the treatment may also be available through primary healthcare providers. The Health Unit encourages parents and caregivers to consult their healthcare providers for further details.

Families without a healthcare provider or those experiencing difficulties accessing the treatment may contact the Health Unit at 1-800-563-2808 to arrange an appointment for their child(ren).

For more information about RSV and the available preventive treatment, please visit RSV Fact Sheet.

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Media Inquiries

Aanu Adenaike, Public Relations Specialist
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca