Saskatchewan Health Authority offering RSV immunization for newborns and young children
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is launching its second season of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention with nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody that helps protect infants and young children from severe RSV illness.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can lead to serious illness in infants and young children.
All babies born in Saskatchewan between October 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027, are eligible to receive a single injection of nirsevimab before leaving their hospital or birthing site.
Unlike vaccines, which stimulate the body to produce its own immune response, nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody that provides immediate protection against severe RSV disease. This is especially important for newborns whose immune systems generally do not produce their own antibodies for approximately the first three months of life.
High-risk infants and young children up to two years of age are also eligible to receive nirsevimab. Children who are considered high risk for severe Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) may also receive a second dose, including children with cystic fibrosis, congenital heart disease, Down syndrome, respiratory conditions, weakened immune systems and certain neuromuscular disorders.
Worldwide, more than 80 per cent of RSV-related hospital admissions occur in babies who were born healthy. Some children who experience severe RSV infection may also develop chronic airway inflammation that can contribute to ongoing breathing problems, including asthma.
“Nirsevimab offers an important layer of protection during a baby’s most vulnerable months,” said Rachel Leavitt, RSV Program Manager, Saskatchewan Health Authority. “By helping prevent severe RSV illness, we can reduce hospitalizations, ease stress on families, and help keep babies healthy during the respiratory virus season.”
Families living in communities supported by the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) may be able to have eligible children receive nirsevimab within their home community through a NITHA nurse.
There is currently no cure for RSV. Treatment focuses on supporting breathing and maintaining oxygen levels until the infection resolves.
Strong Results from Saskatchewan’s First Season
Health outcomes improved for children, families, and communities throughout the province because of Saskatchewan’s newborn RSV prevention program last year:
4,874 newborns received nirsevimab, representing 78 per cent of babies born during the RSV season.
472 high-risk children received nirsevimab protection.
Among newborns who received nirsevimab, less than 0.5 per cent were admitted to hospital due to RSV, and none required intensive care support.
Historically, more than 30 per cent of infants admitted to hospital with RSV required intensive care support.
Prior to the introduction of nirsevimab, otherwise healthy babies accounted for 35 to 46 per cent of pediatric RSV hospital admissions. During the 2025-26 season, that number dropped to 9 per cent among children who received nirsevimab.
For more information about RSV prevention and the Children’s RSV Program of Saskatchewan, visit Mom & Kids Health Saskatchewan or speak with your primary health care provider.
