For newborns and infants: BIG direkt gesund reimburses preventive care against RSV.

12.12.2023 15:12

Since November 22, 2023, BIG direkt gesund has been covering the cost of preventive care against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with the new antibody nirsevimab for newborns and infants with specific risk factors. This preventive care is not yet a standard benefit covered by statutory health insurance.

According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the wave of RSV-related respiratory illnesses has begun in Germany. The RKI dates the start retrospectively to the week beginning November 20th. This was announced by the RKI in its weekly report on acute respiratory illnesses on December 7th.

Pneumonia possible

Infants and children with RSV infection typically first develop a runny nose and loss of appetite. The throat may become inflamed. Coughing and sneezing follow, and fever is common. Complications such as pneumonia are possible. In severe cases, ventilation may even be necessary.
The new antibody nirsevimab (Beyfortus®) is administered once before the start of the RSV season or as soon as possible after birth. The additional screening offered by BIG is intended for:

• Premature infants up to the completed 35th week of pregnancy
• For certain heart or lung conditions, also suitable for toddlers up to their 2nd birthday.

Parents can protect their children

„It is very good news that there is finally a new antibody available for prophylaxis against RSV infection. Our youngest insured members have been able to benefit from this early on. Parents now have the opportunity to protect their children from the dangerous virus,“ said Stefan Oschinski, Head of Supply Management at BIG.