RSV prophylaxis consists of monthly intramuscular injections of palivizumab at a dose of 15 mg/kg (maximum volume 1 mL per injection; multiple injections may be required per dose). This strategy is currently recommended for high-risk infants only (ie, premature infants and newborns with congenital heart disease).

What prophylactic medication prevents RSV?

A drug called palivizumab (pah-lih-VIH-zu-mahb) is available to prevent severe RSV illness in certain infants and children who are at high risk for severe disease.

Who qualifies for RSV vaccine?

Very young infants, especially those 6 months and younger. Children younger than 2 years old with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease. Children with suppressed immune systems. Children who have neuromuscular disorders, including those who have difficulty swallowing or clearing mucus secretions.

Prophylaxis should be considered for these infants if two or more risk factors (i.e., child care attendance, school-aged siblings, exposure to environmental air pollutants, congenital abnormalities of the airways, or severe neuromuscular disease) are present.