Appointments to receive Beyfortus are available starting October 1st, so book now.
Advances in the Care of RSV
Protecting your baby from severe respiratory illness with Beyfortus - now available at Muskegon Pediatrics
Schedule Your Appointment: (231) 638-4120RSV is a virus that causes significant breathing problems in young children, causing some children to be hospitalized. Since 1998 there has been a medication called Synagis available to babies with significant health problems to help them fight off RSV and protect them from serious problems from RSV. It has been cost prohibitive to provide to children other than those with other serious health problems.
In 2023, Beyfortus, was approved for use for all babies from birth to age 8 months. This drug works the same way Synagis does, but it is cheaper and lasts longer; only one dose a season is required. We are happy to say that Muskegon Pediatrics is continuing to give #BESTCARE and offering this important drug to protect our patients.
What is Beyfortus?
- Monoclonal antibody injection that helps prevent severe lung disease caused by RSV
- Not a vaccine - directly provides antibodies instead of prompting the body to create its own
- Provides immediate protection against RSV infection
5 Months of Protection
A single injection provides about five months of protection, covering your baby for an entire RSV season.
Why Should My Baby Get Beyfortus?
RSV is a common and highly contagious respiratory virus that can be serious for infants, leading to hospitalization and other complications. Providing protection can significantly reduce your baby's risk of severe illness.
Studies show that Beyfortus is highly effective at preventing RSV-related hospitalizations in infants.
90%
effectiveness in preventing infant hospitalizations (2024 data)
All infants are most vulnerable to severe RSV disease during their first RSV season. Beyfortus provides crucial protection during this critical period.
Unlike a vaccine, which takes time to become effective, Beyfortus provides your baby with immediate protection against RSV.
Who Should Receive Beyfortus?
According to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Beyfortus is for:
All infants under 8 months old who are:
- Born during their first RSV season
- Entering their first RSV season
- Born outside of the typical RSV season (should receive a dose just before the season begins)
When and Where Does My Baby Get Beyfortus?
Your baby's doctor will determine the best time based on the local RSV season (usually fall to spring in most of the U.S.).
Babies born during RSV season:
Should receive one dose shortly after birth, ideally before leaving the hospital
Babies born outside RSV season:
Should receive a dose in the fall (around October or November)
Where to get it:
- At the hospital before discharge
- At Muskegon Pediatrics office
Co-administration: Beyfortus can be given at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines, including influenza.
Most side effects from Beyfortus are mild and include:
- Pain, swelling, or hardness at the injection site
- Mild rash
Important Consideration
Maternal RSV vaccine: If you received the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) during pregnancy, your infant may not need Beyfortus. Your doctor can help determine if your baby still needs the injection based on when you were vaccinated and your medical history.
Protect Your Baby from RSV Today
Muskegon Pediatrics is proud to offer Beyfortus to protect our youngest patients. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and give your baby the protection they deserve.
