Parents, Doctors Urge B.C. to Fund RSV Protection for All Infants

Rising Demand for Wider Access

Parents and physicians across British Columbia are calling for nirsevimab — an RSV immunization for infants — to be publicly funded for all families. Their plea follows growing frustration that, unlike most provinces, B.C. still requires the majority of parents to pay out of pocket for the preventative antibody, which costs between $800 and $900.

Personal Struggles Illustrate the Challenge

Northern B.C. family physician Dr. Patrick Hemmons says he had to travel to Seattle last year to purchase a dose privately for his preterm daughter. He describes the experience as “stressful and unnecessary,” arguing that no Canadian family should need to cross borders to access a medication proven to reduce severe RSV in infants.

Provinces Split on Funding Decisions

Nirsevimab — approved by Health Canada in April 2023 and distributed under the name Beyfortus — is publicly funded for all infants in most provinces. The exceptions are British Columbia, Alberta and New Brunswick, which only cover high-risk infants or those living in specific remote regions. Despite being born early, Hemmons’ daughter did not qualify under B.C.’s current criteria.

RSV Poses Significant Health and Economic Burdens

RSV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious complications for newborns and older adults. A University of British Columbia study found that babies under six months accounted for 45% of RSV-related hospitalizations nationwide and nearly half of the annual treatment costs, estimated at $32.5 million. Calgary parent Katrina Bellavance, whose infant daughter was hospitalized with RSV in 2023, says broad immunization access could prevent traumatic hospital stays and ease pressure on the health-care system.

National Guidance Supports Universal Coverage

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommended prioritizing high-risk infants due to the high price of the antibody but also advised provinces to move toward universal infant RSV immunization. The committee emphasized that broad coverage would be medically beneficial and economically sound in the long term.

B.C. Signals Potential Policy Revisions

The B.C. Ministry of Health says eligibility criteria are reviewed annually and confirmed that 4,000 publicly funded doses will be available for high-risk infants during the 2025-26 RSV season. Parents of infants who do not qualify may still obtain the medication privately, depending on manufacturer stock.
Pediatrician and former CMA president Dr. Katharine Smart believes B.C. and other holdout provinces may eventually expand coverage, citing both health-care pressures and the high costs associated with RSV hospitalizations. She warns that limited provincial funding also reduces public awareness, leaving families uninformed about the immunization even when they are willing to pay.
“We need to ensure families know nirsevimab exists,” she said. “But even more importantly, we need to make it accessible to every baby.”

The post B.C. Parents Push for Free RSV Shots for Every Infant first appeared on Maple News Wire.

Ontario is taking another step to protect public health. This fall, the province will expand its RSV vaccine program, giving all seniors aged 75 and older free access to the shot. The decision marks an important shift in the province’s vaccine strategy, as cases of respiratory syncytial virus rise each year during the colder months.

A Key Move Ahead of Respiratory Season

Health Minister Sylvia Jones confirmed the change, stressing that the expansion comes just before peak respiratory illness season. She explained that protecting seniors, who face higher risks from RSV, is a top government priority.

By extending eligibility, Ontario aims to strengthen defenses for older adults while easing the strain on hospitals and long-term care facilities during the winter months.

Who Can Get the RSV Vaccine Now

The province already funds RSV shots for other vulnerable groups. These include:

• High-risk adults aged 60 to 74

• Infants up to eight months old during their first RSV season

• High-risk children up to two years old in their second RSV season

Pregnant women will also continue to have the option to receive the vaccine. Doctors note that maternal vaccination is a proven way to pass antibodies to newborns, offering early protection in a baby’s first months.

Why RSV Protection Matters

RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms, but in older adults and children it can lead to serious illness. Hospitalizations due to RSV spike every winter, putting added pressure on healthcare systems. Seniors over 75 often face the most severe outcomes, making preventative steps crucial.

With this broader rollout, Ontario is directly addressing a gap in coverage while reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding vulnerable residents.

Next Steps for Families

Minister Jones noted that details on how and where to access the vaccines will follow in the coming weeks. Pharmacies, doctors’ offices, and public health units are all expected to play a role in distribution. Families are encouraged to stay updated as appointments open.

Bottom Line

Ontario’s decision to expand RSV vaccine eligibility reflects a proactive approach to public health. By protecting seniors 75 and older, the province is reducing risks, easing healthcare pressures, and prioritizing prevention.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more updates on health and vaccine programs.

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