Nirsevimab for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants during their first RSV season

Published on 01 Jul 2026
Last Updated on 01 Jul 2026

Guidance Recommendations

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Advisory Committee has not recommended nirsevimab for inclusion on the MOH Subsidised Vaccine List (SVL) for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants during their first RSV season. The decision was based on the unfavourable cost effectiveness of nirsevimab compared with no immunisation, and the unacceptable price-volume agreement proposed by the company. 

Nirsevimab for prevention of respiratory syncytial virus-associated lower respiratory tract disease in infants during their first RSV season (1 July 2026) [PDF, 319.91 KB]

Plain English Summary

Lower respiratory tract disease occurs when there is an infection in the lungs or the airways. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of this type of infection in children under two years old. RSV spreads in a similar way to the common cold, through droplets from sneezing or coughing, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. It usually causes mild symptoms, but it can sometimes lead to more serious illness when it infects the lungs (pneumonia), large airways (bronchitis) or small airways (bronchiolitis).

RSV is highly contagious and most children have an RSV infection by the age of two. The first infection is often the most severe. Symptoms of more serious illness can include coughing, wheezing, reduced appetite, irritability, shortness of breath and fever. Babies who are born prematurely, have certain lung or heart diseases, or have a weakened immune system are at higher risk of severe infection.

Nirsevimab is a biologic medicine (monoclonal antibody) that helps protect against severe RSV disease. It is given as an injection into a muscle (intramuscularly), usually at birth or before leaving hospital to help protect infants during their first RSV season (typically within their first year of life).

Nirsevimab was not recommended for government subsidy for preventing illness from RSV infection because its benefits do not justify its cost. There are different treatments available to help prevent severe RSV infection. Your doctor can advise whether nirsevimab or other options may be suitable for your child.