Passive RSV immunisation using nirsevimab in neonatal care: a structured multidisciplinary approach and immunisation...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of severe lower respiratory tract infections in newborns and young infants, particularly during winter months.
• In Switzerland, RSV infection is a primary reason for newborn hospital admissions.
• Nirsevimab (Beyfortus®), a long-acting monoclonal antibody, became available for routine newborn care in Switzerland in October 2024.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a multidisciplinary, standardized protocol for nirsevimab administration in newborns.
• To report immunisation data from the initial 2024/25 season at a Swiss tertiary care center.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a new RSV immunisation strategy for infants.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team at University Hospital Zurich developed an RSV immunisation protocol focusing on prenatal and inpatient counseling.
• The protocol aimed to provide consistent information to expectant parents from various healthcare professionals.
• A retrospective, observational cohort study analyzed neonatal immunisation data from October 25, 2024, to March 31, 2025, using patient charts.

Main Results:

• The protocol facilitated early, multidisciplinary parental education, informed consent, and timely nirsevimab administration.
• During the 2024/25 season, 78% of newborns discharged from the maternity ward and 82% from the neonatology unit received nirsevimab.
• Overall, approximately 80% of eligible newborns were immunised before hospital discharge.

Conclusions:

• The implementation of passive RSV immunisation with nirsevimab was largely successful in its first season.
• The standardized protocol ensured effective parental education and informed consent, contributing to high uptake rates.
• An approximate 80% immunisation rate demonstrates the feasibility and success of this public health initiative for newborn protection against RSV.