Children's Hospital Launches Clinic to Protect Infants from RSV This Season

As the respiratory virus season approaches, Children's Hospital has taken proactive measures by launching a dedicated immunization clinic aimed at safeguarding infants from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This common yet potentially severe virus often leads to hospitalizations, particularly for babies under one year old.

The new clinic has opened its doors to provide targeted RSV immunization, which is essential because the virus mainly causes mild symptoms in healthy individuals but can escalate dangerously in vulnerable infants. “Little babies can get very sick, very quickly,” explained nurse practitioner Erin Fleischer, who is supervising the program. “The goal of this RSV prophylaxis is to give everyone these antibodies that will help them fight off the infection so that they don’t have to seek medical care.”

RSV can start as a simple upper respiratory infection but may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia in infants, causing significant difficulty in breathing. Fleischer noted that while many babies can recover at home, a notable number require hospitalization when the infection reaches their lungs.

The clinic is accessible to infants who do not have a family doctor or primary care provider. Parents wishing to make an appointment can leave a message to arrange a suitable time. The RSV immunization differs from traditional vaccines in that it administers ready-to-use antibodies instead of a weakened or killed version of the virus that prompts the body to create its own immune response. This offers immediate protection, known as passive immunity.

Additionally, pregnant women immunized late in their pregnancy can transfer these antibodies to their infants, which is an option for those hesitant about vaccination for their babies. However, the direct infant immunization remains the recommended primary method of prevention against RSV.

This winter marks a crucial time for RSV awareness, as previous years have seen alarming rates of hospitalizations. In November 2022, Children's Hospital recorded its highest patient numbers, routinely seeing around 200 children in the emergency department—far exceeding its capacity of 100 daily.

The RSV clinic will cater to all infants born from January 1, 2024, onwards who are without a primary care provider. The immunization sessions will take place on Mondays from 4 PM to 7 PM and Fridays from 1 PM to 3:30 PM, providing flexible options for busy parents.

The hope is that by increasing the uptake of the RSV shot among infants, the local health care system can alleviate pressure not only on hospital emergency rooms but also on urgent care facilities and doctor’s offices.

To make an appointment, parents can call 519-685-8500 ext. 50071. Protecting our youngest citizens this season is paramount, as RSV continues to be a significant health threat to infants and adds strain to our healthcare infrastructure. Don't let your baby become a statistic—take action now to safeguard their health!