Real-world data show strong protection for U.S. infants
As the United States navigates the 2024-2025 RSV season, several U.S. health networks published real-world analyses underscoring the protective effect of nirsevimab in infants. Across multiple settings, infants who received the preventive monoclonal antibody before RSV circulation experienced markedly lower rates of RSV-related hospitalizations compared with comparable peers who did not receive the shot. When hospitalizations did occur, stays tended to be shorter, easing the burden on families and on pediatric units that are often stretched during RSV peaks.
How nirsevimab works to prevent RSV hospitalization
Nirsevimab is a long-acting monoclonal antibody given as a single intramuscular injection. It provides passive protection through the RSV season by neutralizing the virus and limiting its ability to infect airway cells. Because it is a one-dose preventive, it reduces the need for repeated vaccine events within a season and simplifies protection for newborns and young infants during a period when RSV risk is highest.
Key findings from the 2024-2025 season
Across diverse health systems, researchers observed a consistent protective effect of nirsevimab on the risk of RSV hospitalization in infants under 12 months. Real-world data point to a substantial reduction in RSV-related hospitalizations and a trend toward shorter hospital stays, translating into less disruption for families and reduced strain on pediatric care teams. Importantly, safety signals remained aligned with prior clinical trial results, with no new safety concerns identified in routine practice.
Evidence from a recent research letter
A recent research letter examining nirsevimab administration and RSV hospitalizations during the 2024-2025 season supports these observations. It highlights how timely administration patterns correlated with lower hospitalization rates, reinforcing the value of broad uptake as part of RSV prevention strategies.
Impact on families and healthcare systems
Fewer hospitalizations mean less stress for families—less time away from work, fewer caregiving challenges, and reduced anxiety over a newborn’s health. For hospitals, lower RSV admission volumes help preserve beds and staffing for other urgent pediatric needs, particularly during peak months when resources are stretched thin.
What this means for future RSV seasons
The 2024-2025 data reinforce nirsevimab’s role as a key preventive tool for infants during RSV season. As uptake grows across regions with varying RSV activity, the protective effect may become even more pronounced. Ongoing surveillance and real-world studies will continue to monitor effectiveness across diverse populations and birth circumstances, ensuring families receive reliable protection year after year.
About nirsevimab and RSV prevention
RSV remains a leading cause of hospitalization in young infants. Nirsevimab offers targeted, single-dose prevention that helps reduce severe disease and hospitalizations. Parents should discuss eligibility with their pediatrician to understand how this preventive option fits into a child’s first RSV season, particularly for newborns and infants at higher risk for severe RSV illness.
