Saskatchewan is expanding its infant immunization program to protect all newborns from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during peak respiratory illness season, the province announced this week.
Beginning this fall, every baby born in Saskatchewan from one month prior to the start of RSV season — which typically runs from Oct. 1 to March 31 — will be eligible to receive a publicly funded RSV immunization at birth, with parental consent.
“Expanding our RSV immunization program marks a significant step forward in protecting the health of our youngest residents,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said in a statement. “By making this protection universal during RSV season, we are helping to reduce severe outcomes in babies, ease pressure on emergency departments and pediatric beds, and support the overall capacity of our health system.”
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can cause serious illness in young children, particularly bronchiolitis and pneumonia. It is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in infants worldwide. Premature babies and those with chronic heart or lung conditions are at greatest risk of complications.
Dr. Terry Klassen, head of pediatrics for the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), said the move is aligned with recent recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).
“We know our smallest patients are often our most vulnerable during the winter months when respiratory illness season is most prominent,” said Klassen. “Expanding RSV immunization provides an additional layer of protection against severe illness.”
Previously, Saskatchewan’s RSV immunization program — based on Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) guidelines — was limited to high-risk children during their first and second RSV seasons and required multiple doses. Under the new policy, all infants born during the designated period will receive a single-dose immunization known as Beyfortus (nirsevimab), which provides coverage through the infant’s first RSV season. High-risk infants may still receive protection in their second season.
SHA executive director of maternal and children’s programs Kim Woycik said the expanded program would benefit families and the health system alike.
“The children of Saskatchewan will benefit greatly from our all-infant RSV immunization strategy,” Woycik said. “It will help spare many parents the distress of seeing their child hospitalized and reduce pressure on ERs and pediatric units.”
Parents are encouraged to speak with their prenatal care team, hospital staff, or primary health provider for more information about RSV immunization.
Details about the program can also be found online at: saskatchewan.ca.