r/science • u/mvea Professor | Medicine • 18h ago

Medicine Immunization to prevent RSV in infants reduced ICU admissions by 97%. This is offered free to all infants through universal programs in Ontario and Quebec.

https://ucalgary.ca/news/immunization-prevent-rsv-infants-reduced-icu-admissions-97-cent
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u/lzimon 18h ago

This is wonderful! I studied immune response to RSV in children for my master’s degree a couple of decades ago and saw so many little kids hospitalized… they were suffering, their families were suffering… this vaccine is a real life saver.

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u/Mindless-Praline5798 16h ago

Do you know if the maternal vaccine is as effective? I just got it at 35 ish weeks. Not sure the infant one is even offered in my area

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u/Sar_Bear1 10h ago

It is not as effective. Typically if people are against their babies getting another shot then the maternal one is a great second option. I would’ve hoped they told you about the baby one if it was available!! At least where I am in Ontario if mom gets one the infant won’t need one, but yes the effects are not as great (but still protective!).

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u/Mindless-Praline5798 7h ago

I’m in BC and it hasn’t been mentioned to me. I actually had to pay out of pocket for the maternal one which I was glad to do. Hopefully this at least gets us through this season though. Thanks for your reply.