RSV Protection for Infants Available
The Province is now providing protection against RSV for infants under eight months old, adding to immunization programs for adults aged 75 and older, adults living in long-term care and children under two years of age with certain health conditions.
Infants under eight months can now get free protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The program for infants – which will be offered every year during the RSV season, typically from late fall to spring – began Wednesday, October 15, and runs to April 30, 2026.
Newborns will be offered their dose before being discharged from hospital, and other eligible infants can receive their dose from their primary care provider or public health.
“The monoclonal antibody protection for infants provides strong and instant protection against RSV. So when baby leaves the hospital to come home, they have a good defence,” said Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness. “Protection against RSV will alleviate pressure on emergency departments, primary care and the overall health system.”
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can lead to severe complications such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, particularly in infants and older adults.
Nova Scotia began offering RSV vaccine to adults age 75 and older in September. These additions build on the existing RSV immunization programs for adults living in long-term care and children under two years of age with certain health conditions.
Quick Facts:
- the Province is investing $6.9 million in 2025-2026 to protect Nova Scotians against RSV
- newborns will be offered Beyfortus (nirsevimab), which is not a vaccine but a long-acting monoclonal antibody that provides season-long protection, before being discharged from hospital
- eligible babies born before October 15, or those who missed getting their dose in the hospital, can receive the Beyfortus (nirsevimab) immunization from their primary care provider; public health will help those without a primary care provider
- most infants only need one dose to protect them in their first RSV season; some children who are at higher-risk of infection because of medical conditions will also need a dose in their second RSV season
Additional Resources:
Information on immunization schedules is available at: https://novascotia.ca/dhw/cdpc/documents/Routine-Immunization-Schedules-for-Children-Youth-Adults.pdf
News release – Province Expanding Access to RSV Protection for Infants, Older Nova Scotians: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2025/09/10/province-expanding-access-rsv-protection-infants-older-nova-scotians