Taiwan has broadened RSV antibody coverage to protect a larger group of premature infants from serious respiratory infections. The National Health Insurance Administration announced on Friday that it will now cover respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) monoclonal antibody treatment for more premature babies.
RSV is a major cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia, leading to many hospitalizations in young children. Most RSV infections occur in children under one year old. According to Taiwan’s medical associations, almost all children become infected with RSV by age two. Director Shih Chung-liang reported that Taiwan experiences about 200,000 RSV-related hospitalizations annually. Half of these involve children younger than ten.
In 2023, the number of confirmed RSV cases rose dramatically, increasing 1.7 times compared to 2022 and over four times compared to 2021. Premature infants face even higher risks because their immune systems are underdeveloped. These vulnerable infants can suffer from severe symptoms like breathing difficulties, cyanosis, and respiratory failure. Taiwan’s premature birth rate in 2023 was 10.88%, meaning about one in ten babies were born before 37 weeks.
Until recently, National Health Insurance only covered infants born before 33 weeks for RSV antibody treatment. These babies could receive up to six monthly injections. However, starting June 1, coverage has expanded to include infants born before 36 weeks. These babies can now receive up to three monthly doses.
This policy change will benefit approximately 8,600 premature infants annually. It includes about 4,393 babies born between 33 and 36 weeks, plus 4,240 born before 33 weeks. Each injection costs roughly NT$10,000 (US$339), with government spending expected between NT$400 million and NT$500 million annually. Families may save up to NT$60,000 per child in medical costs through this preventive treatment.
Peng Chun-chih, Standing Director of the Taiwan Society of Neonatology, urged parents of eligible infants under one year old to seek RSV antibody injections quickly. Besides providing protection against RSV, monthly treatments let healthcare providers monitor infants’ growth closely. This care promotes better long-term health outcomes. In summary, expanding RSV antibody coverage marks a major advancement in protecting Taiwan’s premature infants and reducing severe RSV-related illnesses.
