NEWS: RSV antibody shots (Beyfortus) for babies

by |  December 1st, 2023
  

As you may have heard, there is a significant shortage of the much-anticipated RSV monoclonal antibody shot (Beyfortus) for infants from 0-8 months of age. The manufacturer has a limited supply for this year’s RSV season (occurring now through April) and is unable to produce additional shots. 

Our practice has been able to obtain a total of 20 doses of the 50 mg shots, appropriate for babies who weigh under 11 lbs (5 kg). We are grateful we were able to receive any doses, although we know this will be frustrating and disappointing for many of you hoping to protect your little ones from RSV.

Here are the details:

  1. We will begin scheduling appointments starting on Friday, Dec 1, 2023.
  1. Your baby must be under 11 lbs when they are weighed in at the appointment. We are sorry but we cannot make any exceptions.
  1. Newborns roughly gain about 1 oz a day. If you do not have an infant scale at home, you can estimate how much your baby weighs by taking their last weight from our office visit (newborn or two week well check) and then counting the number of days since that visit. 
  1. Most insurance plans state that they will cover the claims billed for this new antibody shot. However, there is no absolute guarantee of that. We will kindly ask you to sign a release at the time of administration stating that you are willing to pay out of pocket if the claim is denied. Our staff can discuss details with you when you call to schedule. 

Thank you for working with us! This has been a frustrating process, but we anticipate this antibody shot to make a significant impact in protection in the future.


411 Pediatrics

About

Dr. Ari Brown is a pediatrician and a mom. Dr. Brown is Board Certified and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has been in private practice for over 20 years. Her passion to advocate for children and educate families extends beyond the office setting. She is the co-author the bestselling "411" parenting book series including Expecting 411: Clear Answers and Smart Advice for your Pregnancy, Baby 411, and Toddler 411. Dr. Brown has received several professional awards including the Ralph Feigin, MD Award for Professional Excellence, the prestigious Profiles in Power Award by the Austin Business Journal for her service to the community, Austin's Favorite Pediatrician by Austin Family Magazine, and Texas Monthly Magazine's Super Doctor.

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