Manitoba set to expand RSV program

Manitoba is expanding its RSV antibody program to include all infants.

More infants in Manitoba will be able to get protection from a serious respiratory condition starting this fall.

The province has expanded its antibody program for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to all infants, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced Friday.

Previously, the province would administer the treatment to children born during the RSV season, which runs from Oct. 1 to March 31. Starting in October, all infants will be able to receive a dose of nirsevimab, an antibody treatment used to reduce the likelihood of serious illness from the virus, shortly after birth.

RSV causes cold-like symptoms in children, and young children and infants are more likely to be hospitalized due to the virus.

The province said RSV accounts for 10 to 20 per cent of respiratory tract infections in infants requiring medical attention.

The dose of nirsevimab will be administered in hospitals, nursing stations and other sites across Manitoba.