RSV-preventing injection in shortage as respiratory virus season begins

Respiratory virus season is only starting, and demand has already outstripped supply for the newly approved and potentially lifesaving monoclonal antibody injection for preventing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children. David Margraf, PharmD, PhD, pharmaceutical research scientist at the Resilient Drug Supply Project (RDSP), said the nirsevimab-alip (Beyfortus) shortage is reminiscent of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. RDSP is part of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), publisher of CIDRAP News. “Wealthier nations secured most early vaccine supplies, which led to delayed vaccine rollouts in many low- and middle-income countries,” he said. “Even in the United States, wealthier communities had better access to vaccines, and rural areas also faced challenges due to distance and scarce resources.” The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the long-acting drug in July, and in August the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the prescription drug to protect all infants...