Pediatricians express growing concerns about the persistent shortages of nirsevimab, a critical new drug approved in July and aimed at reducing RSV-related hospitalizations in infants. RSV, a common respiratory virus, causes several deaths and hospitalizations in young children each year, particularly placing newborns, premature babies, and those with underlying health conditions at high risk. A new dystocia-antibody shot called nirsevimab has been viewed as a ‘powerful tool’ by the CDC to combat infant RSV hospitalizations. However, amid alarming shortages, the CDC intervened on October 13 to manage the distribution of nirsevimab shots through the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Pediatricians are frustrated with the shortage and the unpredictability, as well as the lack of availability and inequitable access. This raises concerns that high-risk babies may not receive the necessary treatment. The manufacturer, Sanofi, which released the nirsevimab, is currently working to address the unprecedented demand and is collaborating with the CDC and state health agencies to find solutions. Short-term solutions to address the shortage of nirsevimab have been proposed, but they may lead to further gaps in the distribution and accessibility of the shot, particularly affecting American Indian and Alaskan Native children. This lack of transparency from the manufacturer also raises concerns about equitable distribution. As a result, federal health officials are striving to ensure a more equitable allocation of nirsevimab for vulnerable children. Dr. Jade A Cobern, M.D., M.P.H., ABC News Medical Unit, confirms these concerns and adds her insights into the situation.
Brand-New RSV Shot for Babies Sparks Concern and Frustration Among Pediatricians Due to Rollout Issues, Critics Say
