Alberta Pediatric Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Prevention Program

Policies & Guidelines, Info for Health Professionals

The Alberta Pediatric RSV Prevention Program is a province-wide initiative that helps protect infants and children from serious RSV illness through:

  • The In-Season Newborn Program, which provides RSV Immunoprophylaxis to eligible infants born in Alberta acute care facilities before discharge during RSV season. 
  • The Pediatric High-Risk Program, which coordinates RSV Immunoprophylaxis for additional eligible high-risk infants and children across Alberta year-round.

ON THIS PAGE:
About RSV Immunoprophylaxis | Program Responsibilities | Eligibility Criteria & Referrals


About RSV Immunoprophylaxis

RSV immunoprophylaxis helps protect eligible infants and children against severe illness caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

For more information on preventing RSV in babies: Preventing RSV in babies using monoclonal antibodies.


Beyfortus® (nirsevimab)

Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) is a long-acting monoclonal antibody that provides passive immunity against RSV. It is the primary RSV immunoprophylaxis product currently used in Alberta for eligible infants during the RSV season.

Product Information


Program Responsibilities

In-Season Newborn Program

  • Offering Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) to eligible families of newborn infants born in Alberta hospitals during RSV season.
  • Coordinating administration of Beyfortus® prior to newborn discharge from hospital
  • Working with hospital pharmacy departments, which supply and manage Beyfortus® inventory for participating acute care sites
  • Providing education and support to healthcare providers and families regarding RSV prevention strategies and Beyfortus® administration.

Pediatric High-Risk RSV Prevention Programs

  • Coordinating access to RSV immunoprophylaxis products, including Beyfortus® (nirsevimab) for other infants and children who are not eligible under the In season newborn program but are at high risk of severe RSV infection.
  • Notifying referral sources of an infant's or child's eligibility or non-eligibility for RSV immunoprophylaxis.
  • Supporting the distribution of RSV immunoprophylaxis products to participating community clinics and other designated points of care.
  • Connecting outpatient families with locations where RSV immunoprophylaxis can be administered.
  • Providing education and support to healthcare providers, families, and community partners regarding RSV prevention strategies.

Eligibility Criteria & Referrals

In-Season Newborn Program

An infant may be eligible for the In-Season Newborn Program if the infant is born in an Alberta acute care hospital between November 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027. No referral is required however, a physician order is required for the medication to be administered. Eligible infants must be identified and offered Beyfortus® during their birth admission.

For more information about overall provincial eligibility for all infants, please visit: RSV Monoclonal Antibody.


Pediatric High-Risk Program

Infants and children who meet provincial high-risk eligibility criteria may be referred to the Pediatric High-Risk Prevention Program for assessment and coordination of RSV immunoprophylaxis.

Current season eligibility criteria and referral instructions for high-risk babies are available through the Alberta Referral Directory (ARD).

Northern Alberta

Edmonton Zone & Area


Southern Alberta

Alberta Children's Hospital