Nirsevimab-alip as a New Option to Prevent Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Respiratory syncytial virus is a respiratory virus that typically presents with mild cold-like symptoms; however, some population groups are at increased risk of developing severe symptoms or dying from this virus. Children under five years of age are particularly at risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or death, driving the need for better preventive approaches for this age group. Nirsevimab-alip has been recently approved to prevent severe respiratory syncytial virus in infants and children under 24 months. This vaccine may be used as part of a prevention plan during the viral season. This course reviews the prevalence and risk factors of the virus, its prevention (including immunization using nirsevimab-alip), symptom management, and the impact pharmacists and pharmacy staff may have in caring for pediatric patients at risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus symptoms.