The injection is to protect against a common winter bug
File image of premature baby in incubator(Image: Getty Images)
A new injection will be offered to babies born very prematurely in Wales to protect them against a common winter virus. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can lead to hospitalisation for babies under one and infects up to 90% of children within their first two years of life.
The new injection, Nirsevimab, provides protection from the virus with just one injection instead of the monthly injections, which were previously offered to high-risk babies such as those born very prematurely.
Last year the first ever RSV vaccine for pregnant women and adults aged 75 to 79 last year was also launched as the virus frequently re-infects older children and adults. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here
In the UK typically the virus is most common starting in October then peaks in December and declines by March.
The injection is long-acting and was advised by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation also advised it should be extended to all babies born before 32 weeks who are entering their first RSV season.
The injection will protect the most vulnerable babies as babies born before 32 weeks would have limited or no protection from a maternal RSV vaccination given to pregnant women at 28 weeks.
The risk of contracting RSV in their first winter is high in babies born very prematurely and can be extremely serious.
RSV in infants can cause bronchiolitis, which leads to the inflammation of the small airways and significant breathing difficulties.
Data showed that very preterm babies were three times more likely to be hospitalised due to RSV, and 10 times more likely to need intensive care, compared to full-term babies.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles said: “We are following the advice of the JCVI to offer this new treatment to babies who are at greater risk of harm during the RSV season.
“This will mean they will only need one dose, instead of multiple doses and it will protect them for longer.
“This is part of our efforts to prepare the NHS in Wales for winter and protect those who are most at risk.”