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The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced a new immunization program to help protect the province’s youngest residents.
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization will now be offered to all children born one month before or during RSV season, typically from October through March. Under the new plan, with parental consent, every baby born during this time will be eligible for the publicly funded immunization at the time of birth.
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RSV infects the lungs, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis and can result in emergency room visits and hospitalization. RSV bronchiolitis is one of the most common reasons for hospitalization of infants around the world. The common virus can also cause symptoms such as sneezing and fever.
While most children recover from RSV, it can be fatal, especially for premature babies or babies with chronic heart or lung diseases.
Those children are considered high-risk and may develop breathing problems and wheezing from RSV.
Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said the change is a significant step forward to protect children.
“By making this protection universal during RSV season, we are helping to reduce severe outcomes in babies, ease pressure on both emergency departments and inpatient pediatric beds during respiratory season, as well as support the overall capacity of our health system,” Cockrill said in a statement.
“This investment reflects our commitment to giving Saskatchewan families greater peace of mind and a healthier start for their children.”
The previous program targeted only high-risk children during their first and second RSV seasons using a multi-dose immunization. The new immunization requires only a single dose, which will cover the child in their first RSV season. The immunizations will also be given to some high-risk infants in their second season.
According to the government, RSV immunization should be considered for all infants born during their first RSV season, and for those with increased risks during their second season.
How to prevent the spread of RSV:
- Wash your hands before touching your child and make sure others do the same
- Keep your child away from people who are sick
- Avoid crowded areas and daycare during RSV season, if possible
- Do not smoke and make sure others do not smoke around your child
- Avoid travel during RSV season, if possible
