New Tool to Shield Infants from RSV in 2025: Maternal Vaccination Now Covered
Starting January 1, 2025, expectant mothers in Belgium will have a powerful new tool at their disposal to protect their newborns from the potentially deadly Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The government has announced its decision to reimburse the Abrysvo vaccine, offering a critical layer of defense for infants during their most vulnerable months.
This move builds on the earlier decision to reimburse Beyfortus, a preventive RSV drug designed specifically for babies.
“Too many babies in our country still become infected with the RSV virus. And we see that the number of hospitalizations decreases drastically when the mother is vaccinated or the baby receives the RSV drug,” says Minister of Health Frank Vandenbroucke (Vooruit). “Hospitals are under pressure every year during the winter due to the many respiratory infections. By now also reimbursing the vaccine, we not only protect the little ones, but we also relieve the pressure on our care.”
How the Abrysvo Vaccine Works
The Abrysvo vaccine introduces a new strategy in the fight against RSV. By vaccinating pregnant women during their third trimester, it triggers the production of antibodies that are then passed on to the developing fetus. These protective antibodies provide the newborn with immediate immunity at birth, offering crucial protection during the critical first few months of life when infants are most susceptible to severe RSV infections.
Understanding the Threat of RSV
RSV, a highly contagious respiratory virus, poses a significant threat to young children. While most cases result in mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can sometimes lead to serious complications, including bronchitis, pneumonia, and in severe cases, even death.
Each year in Belgium, approximately 7,000 cases of RSV infection are reported, highlighting the pervasive nature of this virus. By offering reimbursement for both the Abrysvo vaccine and Beyfortus, the government aims to drastically reduce the number of RSV cases and ease the burden on the healthcare system.
What are the benefits of the Abrysvo vaccine for newborns in Belgium?
## New Vaccine a Game Changer for RSV Protection in Belgium
**Interviewer:** Welcome to the show, Dr. [Guest Name]. Belgium has just made a groundbreaking announcement regarding RSV protection for infants. Can you tell us more about it?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** Absolutely. As of January 1st, 2025, Belgium will be reimbursing the Abrysvo vaccine for expectant mothers. This is a major victory for public health, as it offers a proactive way to protect newborns from RSV, a virus that can be particularly dangerous for infants. [[1](https://vaccination-info.europa.eu/en/rsv)]
**Interviewer:** For our viewers who may not be familiar, what is RSV and why is it such a concern for babies?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** RSV is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in adults. However, for infants, it can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and bronchiolitis. Sadly, RSV is responsible for a significant number of hospitalizations and even deaths in babies every year.
**Interviewer:** So, how does the Abrysvo vaccine work? Does it protect the mother or the baby?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** This is what makes this vaccine so innovative. Abrysvo is a maternal vaccine, meaning it is given to pregnant women. By vaccinating the mother, we are essentially transferring antibodies to the baby during pregnancy, providing them with crucial protection from RSV during their first few months of life when they are most susceptible.
**Interviewer:** This isn’t the first measure Belgium has taken to combat RSV, right?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** You’re right. Earlier this year, Belgium also started reimbursing Beyfortus, a preventive RSV drug specifically for babies. Reimbursing Abrysvo in addition to Beyfortus demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling this public health issue head-on.
**Interviewer:** Dr. [Guest Name], this is truly exciting news. What does this mean for parents in Belgium?
**Dr. [Guest Name]:** This means parents will have access to two powerful tools to safeguard their newborns from the potentially devastating effects of RSV. It’s a huge step forward in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for shedding light on this important development, Dr. [Guest Name]. We appreciate your insights.
