This story was originally posted Dec, 20, 2024. It was updated with new information on March 19, 2025.
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) has announced that it will now provide reimbursement for a vaccine that offers protection against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). This coverage is effective immediately, ensuring increased protection for both pregnant individuals and their babies.
Coverage Details
First Nations Health Benefits will accept reimbursement requests for vaccinations with the Abrysvo™ vaccine administered on or after August 25, 2024. Coverage applies to pregnant individuals who were 32 to 36 weeks gestation at the time of administration.
To request reimbursement, clients must complete the
FNHA Reimbursement Form.
Why Protect Against RSV?
RSV is a common virus that circulates during fall and winter, spreading easily through coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces. While it typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in most individuals, RSV poses a significant risk to babies under six months of age. In infants, RSV can lead to severe complications such as bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs) and pneumonia.
A Proactive Approach for the 2024/2025 RSV Season
For the 2024/2025 RSV season, limited doses of the infant antibody Nirsevimab are available through BC Children's Hospital for some eligible infants. However, for those not eligible, the FNHA strongly recommends that pregnant mothers consider the Abrysvo™ vaccine during the 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.
This vaccine provides dual protection:
For the pregnant parent: Enhanced immunity during the RSV season.
For the baby: A 60% reduction in the risk of hospitalization due to RSV during their first RSV season.
The cost of the vaccine is fully covered through FNHA Health Benefits for eligible individuals.
Next Steps
Talk to your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or community health nurse to learn more about Abrysvo™ or Nirsevimab and how they can help protect your baby from RSV.
Additional Resources
March 19, 2025 update:
RSV season, which started in early October has returned to post-season levels and will end as of March 28, 2025 for the 2024/2025 season.
- The infant program through BC Children's Hospital that offered a product, called Nirsevimab, for infants born after March 31, 2025 AND living in specific rural and remote communities will end for the season.
- There was also a reimbursement program through the FNHA Wellness Initiative for eligible persons receiving Abrysvo vaccine. Abrysvo was offered to persons at 32-36 weeks gestation starting Aug 25, 2024. This reimbursement program will end for the season as of March 28, 2025 for the season. Please remember to submit your claims if the vaccine was received prior to March 28, 2025.
Check back in late summer/early fall for the 2025/2026 RSV season recommendations.
