|
To: Maine Immunization Program Providers
From: Maine Immunization Program
Subject: Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) 50 mg Open for Ordering
Date: January 25, 2024
The Maine Immunization Program is pleased to announce that Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) 50 mg for infants is now open for ordering through ImmPact to all enrolled Vaccines for Children (VFC) providers. Ordering is available at a minimum quantity of 5 doses and a maximum quantity of 10 doses per site. Nirsevimab 100 mg doses remain available to order for all enrolled VFC providers. All orders must be placed as soon as possible to ensure doses are administered prior to the end of RSV season (March 31, 2024).
The CDC encourages healthcare providers to administer nirsevimab to protect infants against severe RSV. Hospitals and pediatric offices should continue to use every opportunity to administer nirsevimab as quickly as possible to all eligible infants through March 31, 2024. This includes administration during well-child visits as well as other visits to ensure no missed opportunities for immunization.
All Beyfortus products in the state of Maine have an expiration date ending in 2025. Any inventory remaining after the RSV season (end of March 31, 2024) should continue to be stored at appropriate temperature and monitored until the next RSV season. Practices that are only carrying Beyfortus and do not wish to continue monitoring and housing this vaccine after the 2023-2024 season, please contact MIP so that we can arrange for transfer.
CDC Recommendations for Healthcare Providers:
Storage and Handling of Nirsevimab
Nirsevimab is supplied as pre-filled syringes for one time use only. It comes in two doses:
The pre-filled syringes should be stored refrigerated between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and may be kept at room temperature 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for a maximum of 8 hours. They should be stored in the original carton to protect from light until time of use. Do not freeze or expose to heat.
After removal from the refrigerator, they must be used within 8 hours or discarded. Do not use nirsevimab beyond the expiration date printed on the label.
Administering Nirsevimab
 Administer nirsevimab intramuscularly. The preferred site of administration is the anterolateral thigh region. Do not administer nirsevimab intravenously, intradermally, or subcutaneously.
Number and Timing of Doses of Nirsevimab
Infants younger than 8 months of age who were born during or are entering their first RSV season should receive nirsevimab if:
- The mother did not receive RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
- The mother’s RSV vaccination status is unknown.
- The infant was born within 14 days of maternal RSV vaccination.
When indicated, nirsevimab should be administered shortly before or during the RSV season.
- Infants born during the RSV season should receive a single dose of nirsevimab (50 mg for infants <5 kg and 100 mg for infants ≥5 kg) in the first week of life. The dose can be administered either in the birth hospital or outpatient clinic. Infants with prolonged hospitalization (e.g., preterm infants) should be immunized shortly before or promptly after discharge. Nirsevimab administration should be offered during the season to those who have not received a dose.
- In infants younger than age 8 months born outside the RSV season, a single dose of nirsevimab (50 mg for infants <5 kg and 100 mg for infants ≥5 kg) is recommended. Administration should be targeted shortly before the start of their first RSV season and continued during the season for those who have not received a dose.
- In children ages 8 through 19 months who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease, administration of a single 200 mg dose of nirsevimab should be targeted shortly before the start of their second RSV season and continued during the season for those who have not received a dose.
Administration with Vaccine Products
Nirsevimab can be administered without regard to timing of routine childhood vaccines. This includes simultaneous administration (i.e., same clinic day) with vaccine products. No interval between nirsevimab and live vaccines (such as MMR and Varicella) is necessary.
Resources:
If you have any questions, please contact the Maine Immunization Program at (207) 287-3746 or email ImmunizeME.DHHS@maine.gov.
|
