The Canadian Ministry of Health has approved a new vaccine aimed at protecting the two groups most affected by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): newborn children, who can receive antibodies through maternal immunization, and Canadians over the age of 60.

This Pfizer Canada bivalent vaccine, called Abrysfo, aims to prevent lower respiratory tract diseases caused by the virus.

This is the first RSV vaccine in Canada approved for use by pregnant women to protect infants from birth up to six months of age, and the second approved for adults aged 60 and over.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common but highly contagious respiratory virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms. For the most vulnerable populations—including infants, the elderly, or those with respiratory or heart diseases—RSV can lead to more severe illness, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, and the possibility of hospitalization.

A single dose of the Pfizer vaccine will also be given to pregnant women in the third trimester (from 32 to 36 weeks) who will produce antibodies that can be passed from parent to child. Vaccination during pregnancy is also recommended for other diseases, including COVID-19, influenza, and pertussis.

In August 2023, the Canadian Ministry of Health approved another RSV vaccine for seniors from the manufacturer GSK. In spring 2023, the agency approved an antibody drug called Nirsevimab to protect newborns and infants from severe diseases caused by RSV.