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Stay Ahead of RSV: Your Guide to Vaccination and Prevention in Alberta

RSV vaccine alberta

Have you heard about Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV? It’s a common respiratory illness that many of us might encounter at some point. While it’s usually mild, it can sometimes be more serious, especially for certain groups of people. In Alberta, there’s now an RSV vaccine available to help protect those at higher risk. Let’s dive into what RSV is all about, how it spreads, its symptoms, and the RSV vaccine Alberta to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness that is usually mild. However, it is possible to contract RSV multiple times throughout your life. While RSV can affect individuals of any age, it primarily impacts:

  • Babies and young children
  • Older adults
  • Certain groups are at a higher risk of developing serious illnesses like pneumonia from RSV, including those who:
  • Are under two years old
  • Have heart or lung conditions
  • Have conditions affecting their nervous system
  • Have weakened immune systems
  • Are over 65 years old

Symptoms of RSV

Common symptoms include:

  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Cough
  • Wheezing
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • In babies, symptoms may be less specific, such as:
  • Reduced activity
  • Difficulty breathing and feeding
  • Irritability
  • Symptoms typically last 1 to 2 weeks.

All about the RSV Vaccine Alberta

RSV Vaccines for Adults 60+ in Alberta:

  • ABRYSVO™ and Arexvy authorized for use in adults 60+ for preventing lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV.
  • National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) is reviewing the use of these vaccines.

RSV Immunization for Infants and Pregnant Women:

  • Who Should Consider RSV Immunization:
    • Infants entering or born during their first RSV season.
    • Infants at ongoing increased risk during their second RSV season.
  • Preferred Medications:
    • Nirsevimab (RSV monoclonal antibody) preferred over palivizumab and RSVpreF vaccine.
    • Nirsevimab prioritized for infants.
  • RSVpreF Vaccine Considerations:
    • Pregnant women/persons may consider RSVpreF vaccine with their care provider.
    • No additional benefit in using both RSVpreF and nirsevimab for healthy infants.
    • If RSVpreF is given during pregnancy and infant is at increased risk or born <2 weeks after vaccination, nirsevimab should still be provided.

Dosing Schedule:

  • Nirsevimab:
    • Single dose for infants:
      • <5 kg: 0.5 mL dose (50 mg/0.5 mL).
      • ≥5 kg: 1 mL dose (100 mg/1 mL).
    • Second RSV season:
      • Single dose of 200 mg (2 x 100 mg/1 mL).
      • If <10 kg, single dose of 100 mg may be considered.
  • Palivizumab:
    • Series of 4 or 5 doses, each 15 mg/kg of body weight.
    • Intervals:
      • Second dose: 21-28 days after first.
      • Subsequent doses: 28-35 days apart.
    • Additional doses:
      • After cardiac bypass or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
      • In remote northern areas with longer RSV outbreaks.
  • RSVpreF Vaccine:
    • Administered during pregnancy between 32-36 weeks gestation.
    • Needs at least 2 weeks before birth for antibody transfer.

Routine Schedule:

  • Nirsevimab Recommended:
    • For all infants entering or born during their first RSV season, if available.
    • Supply prioritized for infants/children at increased risk.

Infants and Children at Increased Risk:

  • Recommended for Nirsevimab:
    • Infants/children entering their first RSV season at increased risk (e.g., born <37 wGA).
    • Infants entering their second RSV season at ongoing increased risk.
  • Criteria for Increased Risk:
    • Complex transportation for severe RSV treatment.
    • Intersection with social/structural health determinants (e.g., Indigenous communities).
  • If Nirsevimab is Unavailable:
    • Use palivizumab as per NACI guidelines.

Administration Details:

  • Palivizumab:
    • First dose at RSV season onset.
    • Infants born during RSV season should receive the first dose before discharge or promptly after.
    • If re-hospitalized, doses should be given as scheduled.
  • Monoclonal Antibodies Not Recommended For:
    • Infants with current/previous confirmed RSV infection in the same season (except severely immunocompromised infants).
  • Infants with RSVpreF Vaccinated Parent:
    • Do not need nirsevimab unless medically necessary or born <2 weeks after RSVpreF administration.

Pregnant Women and People:

  • Preferred Protection:
    • Due to superior efficacy and safety, Nirsevimab for infants over RSVpreF vaccine for pregnant women.
    • RSVpreF vaccine is considered with care provider during RSV season if nirsevimab is anticipated for the infant.

Additional Doses:

  • Monoclonal Antibody:
    • Recommended after cardiopulmonary bypass or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Vaccination of Specific Populations:

  • Infants Born Prematurely:
    • First RSV Season:
      • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended.
      • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
      • Applicable to infants born <37 weeks gestational age (wGA).
    • Second RSV Season:
      • Monoclonal antibodies not routinely offered to those without additional medical conditions.
    • If Nirsevimab Unavailable:
      • Use palivizumab for infants born <33 wGA.
      • Consider for infants 30-33 wGA aged <3 months at RSV season onset if high risk (e.g., daycare attendance, preschool siblings).
      • Not recommended for healthy infants born ≥33 wGA or siblings of multiple births without other indications.
  • Infants and Children with Chronic Diseases:
    • Chronic Lung Disease:
      • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended for both first and second RSV seasons.
      • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
      • Applicable to infants/children with ongoing assisted ventilation, oxygen therapy, or chronic medical therapy in the 6 months prior to RSV season.
      • Includes infants/children with cystic fibrosis with respiratory involvement/growth delay.
    • If Nirsevimab Unavailable:
      • Use palivizumab for infants with chronic lung disease of prematurity born ≤32 wGA, requiring supplemental oxygen >21% for first 28 days after birth, aged <24 months.
      • Consider for infants <24 months with severe chronic lung disease of other etiology or requiring home respiratory support.
      • Not routinely recommended for children <24 months with cystic fibrosis unless severe chronic lung disease present.
    • Heart Disease:
      • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended for both first and second RSV seasons.
      • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
      • Reimmunize after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass or at conclusion of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
    • Down Syndrome:
      • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended for first RSV season.
      • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
      • Not routinely offered for second RSV season if no other medical conditions.
      • Palivizumab offered for those qualifying due to other medical conditions like significant heart disease, chronic lung disease, or prematurity.
    • Immunocompromised Infants and Children:
      • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended for first and second RSV seasons.
      • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
      • Not a precaution to immunization with RSVpreF, but efficacy/safety data limited for pregnant immunocompromised individuals.
  • Infants and Children with Complex Transportation Needs for RSV Disease Treatment:
    • RSV monoclonal antibodies recommended.
    • Nirsevimab preferred over palivizumab.
    • Prioritize infants entering/born during their first RSV season with complex transportation needs.
  • Infants and Children at Risk Due to Social and Structural Health Determinants:
    • Nirsevimab prioritized for infants intersecting with social/structural health determinants (e.g., Indigenous communities).
    • If Nirsevimab Unavailable:
      • Use palivizumab for infants <36 wGA and <6 months in remote northern Inuit communities needing air transport for hospitalization.
      • Consider for infants <36 wGA and <6 months in other remote communities with high RSV hospitalization rates.
  • Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women and Pregnant or Breastfeeding People:
    • RSVpreF Vaccine Consideration:
      • For preventing severe RSV disease in infants.
      • Discuss with the pregnancy care provider for immunization in advance/during RSV season.
      • Administer between 32-36 weeks gestation for antibody transfer.
      • Needs at least 2 weeks before birth for transplacental transfer of antibodies.
    • Breastfeeding:
      • Possible modest antibody transfer through breast milk if vaccinated during pregnancy/breastfeeding.

Risk Factors for Severe RSV Disease:

  • General Risk:
    • RSV infects almost all infants by age 2.
    • Younger children have a higher risk of hospitalization.
  • Specific Risk Factors:
    • Prematurity (<30 wGA).
    • Chronic respiratory, cardiac, or immunocompromising conditions.
  • Increased Risk for First RSV Season:
    • Premature infants (<37 wGA).
    • Chronic lung disease.
    • Cystic fibrosis.
    • Significant cardiac disease.
    • Severe immunodeficiency.
    • Severe congenital airway anomalies.
    • Neuromuscular disease.
    • Down syndrome.
  • Increased Risk for Second RSV Season:
    • All above conditions, except infants born <37 wGA and those with Down syndrome without other conditions.

FAQs

1. Is the RSV vaccine free in Alberta?

No, the RSV vaccine is not offered for free in Alberta. If you are 60 years or older, you can get the vaccine, but it must be paid for out of pocket or through private health insurance.

2. Can pregnant women get the RSV vaccine in Alberta?

Currently, there is no specific RSV vaccine recommended for pregnant women in Alberta. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for the best preventive measures during pregnancy.

3. Are there RSV vaccines available for infants in Alberta?

There are specific medications available for infants at high risk of severe illness from RSV, such as palivizumab (Synagis). These are not vaccines but can help prevent severe RSV in high-risk infants. Talk to your doctor for more information.

4. What are the side effects of the RSV vaccine in Alberta?

Common side effects of the RSV vaccine can include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, and fatigue. Severe side effects are rare but possible. It’s always best to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

5. Does Alberta Blue Cross cover the RSV vaccine?

Coverage for the RSV vaccine under Alberta Blue Cross may vary depending on your specific plan. It’s best to check directly with Alberta Blue Cross or your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

6. Who is eligible for the RSV vaccine in Alberta?

In Alberta, the RSV vaccine is primarily available to adults aged 60 years or older. Eligibility can vary, so consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

7. What is the name of the RSV vaccine available in Alberta?

One of the RSV vaccines available is called Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), but this is mainly for infants at high risk. For older adults, you would need to consult your healthcare provider for the specific vaccine names available.

8. Can adults in Alberta get the RSV vaccine?

Yes, adults in Alberta, especially those aged 60 years or older, can get the RSV vaccine. They need to pay for it, and it can be obtained through private immunization clinics or by consulting with a doctor or pharmacist.

There you have it! Knowing about the RSV vaccine and its availability in Alberta can help you make informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re considering the vaccine for yourself, your children, or elderly family members, staying updated and consulting with your healthcare provider is always a good idea. Remember, prevention is critical to keeping everyone healthy and happy. Stay safe, and take care!

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