Shanghai Begins Offering World's First Broadly Protective RSV Injection for Infants

Starting Thursday, babies under 1 year old in Shanghai can receive the world's first broadly protective injection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This groundbreaking option, designed for all infants, is now available at several hospitals in the city, including the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, the Children's Hospital of Fudan University, and Shanghai Children's Medical Center.

Developed by Sanofi and Astra Zeneca, the injection was approved for marketing in China in December 2022. It is the first and only innovative prevention method approved in the country to address lower respiratory tract infections caused by RSV in all infants.

The injection offers significant protection for newborns and infants, who are particularly vulnerable to severe RSV infections. A baby girl born on September 23rd became one of the first recipients of the injection in Shanghai, receiving it at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University.

"RSV infection can severely affect lung function in newborns and infants, who have a higher chance of developing severe cases after getting infected," explained Gu Weirong, vice-president of the hospital. "Official figures showed that RSV caused more than 80% of respiratory viral infection cases in infants and young children in China last year. However, there were few targeted prevention methods available."

The novel injection provides healthcare workers and parents with a much-needed preventive measure, helping to minimize the risk of RSV infection in infants. According to product instructions, babies born at the medical institution during the RSV epidemic season (November to April) can receive the injection for immediate protection.

The injection is also available in other major cities across China, including Beijing, Tianjin, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. This marks a significant step forward in protecting infants from the dangers of RSV infection.