Quebec to become 1st province to offer free RSV shots for infants

Quebec will offer a one-dose antibody to help protect babies and vulnerable children against complications due to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), free of charge, starting in the fall.

Nirsevimab from drug maker Sanofi (sold as Beyfortus) is administered as an injection and helps reduce the risk of infection from RSV, which in serious cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. 

The Health Ministry hopes the availability of the medication will help reduce medical consultations and hospital emergency visits due to RSV complications, it said in a statement. The virus is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations among children, according to the McGill University Health Centre.

The medication will become available to babies under six months old and children with pre-existing health conditions rendering them more vulnerable to risks of complication from the virus.

RSV infections are seasonal and tend to circulate from the fall until spring.