When it comes to protecting your baby's growing lungs from RSV, timing is everything. RSV season usually starts in the fall and continues into spring, but the season may be different where you live. So your first step should be talking to your baby's healthcare provider to find out when RSV season starts and ends in your area.
If your baby has been prescribed Synagis, getting each and every shot during RSV season is essential. Remember that Synagis doesn't work like a vaccine. One Synagis shot protects your baby for about 28-30 days, so delaying or skipping a shot may leave your baby unprotected. Make sure you plan ahead for your baby's first Synagis shot and keep the rest of your baby's shots on schedule.
High-risk babies born before RSV season starts will still be at a greater risk for severe RSV disease when the season begins a few months later. Remember, your child may look quite healthy by then, but those growing lungs still need protection.
Every baby's treatment schedule is unique
Your baby's treatment schedule will depend on when the baby was born and when RSV season starts in your area. Remember that the first Synagis shot should be given before RSV season starts.
High-risk babies born after the start of RSV season may get their first shot in the NICU. They should continue to get one Synagis shot every 28-30 days for the rest of the season. Make sure you talk to your baby's doctor about how many shots your baby will need and when to get started.
"As a NICU nurse, I knew just how important each and every dose of Synagis was for Emily..."
Important Safety Information
Synagis® (palivizumab) is indicated for the prevention of serious lung infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children at high risk of RSV disease. Synagis is given as a shot, usually in the thigh muscle, each month during the RSV season. The first dose of Synagis should be given before RSV season begins. Children who develop an RSV infection while receiving Synagis should continue the monthly dosing schedule throughout the season. Synagis has been used in more than one million children in the U.S. since its introduction in 1998.
Very rare cases (<1 per 100,000 patients) of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and rare (<1 per 1,000 patients) hypersensitivity reactions have been reported with Synagis. These rare reactions may occur when any dose of Synagis is given, not just the first one. Also, rare but serious side effects can occur, which may lead to unusual bruising and/or groups of pinpoint red spots found on the skin.
Other side effects with Synagis may include upper respiratory tract infection, ear infection, fever, and runny nose. In children born with heart problems, Synagis was associated with reports of low blood oxygen levels and abnormal heart rhythms. Synagis should not be used in patients with a history of a severe prior reaction to Synagis or its components. Side effects, such as, skin reactions around the area where the shot was given (like redness, swelling, warmth, or discomfort) can also occur.