Low Uptake of RSV Antibody Shots in Infants Highlights Disparities

A recent study highlights that the administration of the new RSV antibody shot, nirsevimab, among eligible infants remains low, raising concerns about its uptake and healthcare disparities. Despite its approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the 2023–24 RSV season, only about 35% of eligible babies received the injection, according to research published in the journal Pediatrics. The study was conducted across the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Primary Care Network, encompassing 32 practices serving over 300,000 children in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Nirsevimab, marketed as Beyfortus by Sanofi Pharmaceuticals, is designed to protect infants from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common pathogen that causes mild cold-like symptoms in most children but can lead to severe illness, including pneumonia, especially in infants under one year. The antibody shot is recommended for all babies younger than 8 months and for children aged 8 to 19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV.

The study found that the uptake varied significantly among practices, ranging from 20% to 65%. Interestingly, the data indicated no general parental vaccine hesitancy, as 84% of babies had received other vaccines by nine months of age. However, only 39% of fully vaccinated babies and 22% of partially vaccinated ones received the RSV antibody shot.

Key disparities emerged, with Black infants being 47% less likely to receive nirsevimab compared to white infants. Similarly, children from lower-income families, those on Medicaid or CHIP, and infants born from April through July were less likely to be vaccinated. Researchers hypothesize that these disparities may stem from hesitations related to insurance coverage or newness of the vaccine, as parents and providers were uncertain about coverage and availability right after the approval.

These findings are concerning because RSV can significantly harm infants. The CDC reports that RSV is a leading cause of pneumonia in children under one year old, often resulting in hospitalization. The introduction of nirsevimab offers a substantial preventive tool, alongside maternal vaccination during pregnancy, which can provide passive immunity to unborn children.

Despite the low uptake, health experts emphasize the importance of increasing vaccination rates to protect vulnerable infants from severe disease. Further research is necessary to understand barriers, ensure equitable access, and improve overall vaccination coverage for all demographic groups.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-babies-rsv-antibody-shot.html