Nirsevimab Immunization to Prevent Respiratory Syncytial Virus–Associated Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Infants and Children up to 24 Months of Age

Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infects nearly all infants in their first year of life and is the leading cause of hospitalization for infants younger than 1 year of age in the United States. Historically, the only option for RSV prevention was palivizumab. However, not all infants are eligible for palivizumab, it requires multiple doses per RSV season, and it is costly. In July 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved nirsevimab for the prevention of RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections for all infants. Nirsevimab inhibits RSV from fusing to cellular membranes and thereby neutralizes the virus in the body. Nirsevimab is expected to significantly reduce the health and economic burdens of RSV. This article provides an overview of nirsevimab, potential adverse effects, and implications for nursing practice.