New Zealand Public Health Experts Advocate for Universal RSV Immunization for Infants

Public health experts in New Zealand are advocating for a universal immunization program against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for infants. The recommendation emphasizes that RSV hospitalizations disproportionately affect Māori and Pacific infants, as well as children from socioeconomically deprived households. The proposal highlights new prevention strategies, including long-acting monoclonal antibodies (nirsevimab or clesrivomab) and maternal RSV vaccination (RSVpreF), as effective methods to provide season-long protection.