RSV shot coverage in Newfoundland and Labrador remains limited as parents and doctors call for expansion

Parents and medical groups say Newfoundland and Labrador limits public coverage of the infant RSV antibody nirsevimab to high‑risk babies, and the province says it is examining options but has no concrete plans to expand universal coverage.

A St. John's mother whose twin sons were born prematurely says she sought protection against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) but found provincial coverage in Newfoundland and Labrador is limited. National advisory bodies have recommended wider use of the antibody nirsevimab and a maternal RSV vaccine, and several provinces have expanded public programs. Health officials in Newfoundland and Labrador say they are exploring how to approach nirsevimab coverage but have not announced changes. Some families have purchased the antibody privately since it became available for private purchase in October 2025. Key points: - Newfoundland and Labrador currently offers publicly funded nirsevimab only for defined high‑risk infants, including some premature babies and children with chronic lung or heart conditions. - Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Janice Fitzgerald said the province is examining nirsevimab but has no concrete plans to expand universal coverage. - Provincial testing data show RSV detections rose from 196 cases (1.6% of tests) in 2021–22 to 1,062 cases (3.9% of tests) in 2024–25, with 74 detections reported as of late January; the department said it could not provide data on severe outcomes. - Nirsevimab has been available for private purchase in Canada since Oct. 6, 2025, with reported out‑of‑pocket costs that put it beyond reach for many families. Summary: The current policy means some infants in Newfoundland and Labrador are not eligible for publicly funded RSV antibody protection and some families are paying privately. The provincial health office says it is reviewing options but has not set a plan or timeline for broader coverage. Undetermined at this time.